Mr. Mister – Is It Love
A melodic pop-rock gem with emotional depth
By the time “Is It Love” hit the airwaves in March 1986, Mr. Mister had already scored back-to-back smashes with “Broken Wings” and “Kyrie.” But this third single from their breakout album Welcome to the Real World proved they weren’t just riding a lucky streak—they were crafting thoughtful, emotionally resonant pop-rock with real staying power.
Polished Power with a Pulse
“Is It Love” opens with a pulsing synth hook that immediately sets the tone—urgent, melodic, and unmistakably ’80s. The band’s signature sound is on full display: Steve George’s shimmering keyboards, Steve Farris’s expressive guitar work, and Pat Mastelotto’s crisp drumming all lock into a tight, dynamic groove. The production, handled by the band and Paul De Villiers, is sleek but never sterile—each instrument has room to breathe, and the mix feels alive.
Farris’s guitar solo is a highlight: soaring, melodic, and full of feeling without ever veering into excess. It’s a perfect counterpoint to the song’s emotional core.
Richard Page’s Soulful Plea
At the heart of the track is Richard Page’s vocal performance—warm, clear, and full of quiet intensity. His delivery walks the line between vulnerability and strength, especially as he leans into the chorus:
“Is it love, is it love you’re after?”
It’s a simple question, but one loaded with emotional weight. The lyrics explore the uncertainty that comes with falling for someone who may not feel the same way. There’s no melodrama—just a sincere desire for clarity and connection.
Chart Success and Cultural Footprint
“Is It Love” became Mr. Mister’s third consecutive Top 10 hit in the U.S., peaking at #8 on the Billboard Hot 100 in June 1986. It also reached #11 on the Cash Box Top 100, #17 on Billboard’s Mainstream Rock chart, and #20 in Canada. Internationally, it charted in Belgium, Germany, and the Netherlands, though it only reached #87 in the UK.
The song also appeared in the closing credits of the 1987 film Stakeout, giving it a second life on screen.
A Thoughtful ’80s Standout
While it may not have the same cultural footprint as “Broken Wings,” “Is It Love” remains a fan favorite and a standout example of how smart, emotionally honest songwriting could still thrive in the pop mainstream. It’s a track that asks a timeless question—and does so with style, sincerity, and a killer hook.