A Power Ballad of Love’s Persistence: Chicago’s “Hard Habit To Break”
Ah, the mid-80s. A time of big hair, synthesized melodies, and power ballads that could melt even the most cynical heart. Amongst this landscape of soaring vocals and dramatic key changes emerged Chicago, a band already seasoned by years of success, with a song that resonated deeply with the complexities of love and loss. That song, “Hard Habit To Break,” climbed to number 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1984, cementing its place in the pantheon of adult contemporary classics. It was a testament to the band’s enduring appeal and their ability to evolve with the changing musical tastes, while still retaining their signature sound. This wasn’t just a hit; it was an anthem of the heart.
The story behind “Hard Habit To Break” is as compelling as the song itself. It was penned by the prolific songwriting duo of Steve Kipner and Peter Cetera, the latter also lending his unmistakable vocals to the track. Cetera, of course, was a driving force behind Chicago’s sound during this era, his voice a perfect instrument for expressing both vulnerability and strength. The song appeared on their 1984 album, “Chicago 17,” an album that marked a significant period of commercial success for the band. This album, and “Hard Habit To Break” in particular, showcased Chicago’s mastery of the power ballad, a style that dominated the airwaves during the decade. The song’s arrangement, with its gradual build-up, soaring chorus, and emotive instrumentation, was a hallmark of the era, but it was the raw honesty of the lyrics that truly captured the hearts of listeners.
At its core, “Hard Habit To Break” explores the lingering pain of a lost love and the difficulty of moving on. It’s a song about the struggle to forget, the constant reminders that permeate daily life, and the sheer effort it takes to break free from the emotional chains of a past relationship. We’ve all been there, haven’t we? That ache in your chest, the memories that flicker like ghosts in the quiet moments, the way a certain song or a familiar scent can transport you back to a time when love felt infinite. The lyrics perfectly encapsulate this universal experience, speaking to the heart’s stubborn refusal to let go, even when the mind knows it’s time. “It’s a hard habit to break,” Cetera croons, and you can almost feel the weight of those words, the sheer exhaustion of battling one’s own heart. It’s not just about missing someone; it’s about the way their absence leaves a void, a space that seems impossible to fill.
What makes “Hard Habit To Break” so enduring, I think, is its relatability. It doesn’t offer easy answers or simplistic solutions. It acknowledges the messiness of love, the way it can linger long after the relationship has ended. It speaks to the quiet desperation of trying to rebuild a life after heartbreak, the feeling of being trapped in a cycle of longing and regret. It’s a song that understands the human heart, its capacity for both immense love and profound sorrow. And in that understanding, it offers a kind of solace. It reminds us that we are not alone in our struggles, that others have walked this path before us, and that even the most painful wounds can eventually heal. It reminds us of the power of music to connect us, to give voice to our unspoken emotions, and to offer comfort in times of need. “Hard Habit To Break” is more than just a song; it’s a testament to the enduring power of love, loss, and the long, arduous journey of healing. And for those of us who remember the 80s, it’s a nostalgic reminder of a time when music spoke directly to the heart, a time when power ballads ruled the airwaves, and a song like “Hard Habit To Break” could capture the collective emotions of a generation.