The song was released as a single in December 1986 with “Layin’ It on the Line” on the B-side. It is featured on the soundtrack for the Michael Gottlieb’s romantic comedy film Mannequin. The song is included on Starship’s their second studio album, No Protection. The song became one of Starship’s most successful hits and is one of the defining tracks of the late 1980s.
“Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now” was written by Diane Warren and Albert Hammond. Diane Warren is a prolific songwriter known for her numerous hits across various artists and genres, while Albert Hammond is an accomplished musician and songwriter. The song was produced by Narada Michael Walden, a renowned producer who has worked with artists such as Whitney Houston and Aretha Franklin.
The song was specifically written for the film Mannequin, starring Andrew McCarthy and Kim Cattrall. The storyline of the movie, which involves a department store mannequin coming to life and the ensuing romance, inspired the song’s themes of unwavering love and determination. Musically, “Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now” is a power ballad with a grand, anthemic quality. It features lush synthesizers, a strong drum beat, and soaring vocals. Grace Slick and Mickey Thomas, the lead vocalists of Starship, deliver a powerful duet that enhances the song’s emotional impact.
“Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now” was a massive commercial success. It reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States, making it Starship’s second chart-topping single after “We Built This City.” The song also topped the charts in several other countries, including the UK, Canada, and Ireland. It was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Song, further cementing its popularity.
The music video for “Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now” features scenes from the movie Mannequin interspersed with footage of Starship performing the song. The video’s visuals complement the song’s themes of love and determination, with the band’s energetic performance adding to the overall feel-good atmosphere.
“Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now” remains one of Starship’s most iconic songs. It continues to be a staple of 1980s music compilations and receives regular airplay on classic hits radio stations. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its catchy melody, powerful vocals, and universal message of love and perseverance.