Take a trip back to the glam metal era with a power ballad that truly embodies the spirit of the late 80s.
The Song
"Falling In & Out Of Love" is a quintessential power ballad from the American hard rock band Femme Fatale. Released in 1988, it was a standout track from their self-titled debut album, Femme Fatale. The song perfectly captures the emotional intensity and soaring melodies characteristic of the era's rock anthems. Its production features lush instrumentation, powerful vocals by Lorraine Lewis, and a memorable guitar solo, making it a fan favorite and a key track in the band's repertoire.
The Artist
Femme Fatale was an American hard rock band formed in Albuquerque, New Mexico, in 1987. Led by the charismatic vocalist Lorraine Lewis, who was one of the few prominent female frontwomen in the male-dominated glam metal scene, the band also featured Bill D'Angelo on guitar, Mazzi Rawd on guitar, Rick Rael on bass, and Bobby Murray on drums. Their sound blended melodic hard rock with a polished, commercial appeal, helping them secure a record deal with MCA Records. The band disbanded in 1990 but has seen various reunions and incarnations over the years, with Lewis remaining a constant presence.
Chart Performance
While the album Femme Fatale did chart on the Billboard 200, reaching number 141 in 1988, "Falling In & Out Of Love" itself did not achieve significant chart success as a single. The band's other notable single, "Waitin' for the Big One," also released from the same album, similarly garnered moderate attention without becoming a major chart hit. Despite not being a chart-topper, the song remains a beloved track among fans of 80s hard rock and power ballads.
Cultural Impact
"Falling In & Out Of Love" and Femme Fatale hold a significant place in the narrative of women in hard rock during the late 1980s. Lorraine Lewis's powerful stage presence and vocal prowess challenged perceptions in a genre often criticized for its treatment of women, paving the way for future female rock artists. The song embodies the enduring sound and aesthetic of the hair metal era, often featured in retrospectives and playlists dedicated to the genre. Its emotional depth and musical craftsmanship contribute to its lasting appeal among those who appreciate the melodic side of 80s rock.
Fun Facts
- Lorraine Lewis later became the lead singer of the popular all-female metal band Vixen in 2018, continuing her career in hard rock.
- The band Femme Fatale was initially discovered by former Rough Cutt member Jake E. Lee.
- Despite their brief original run, Femme Fatale performed as part of the "Glam Metal Jam" festival in 2013, showcasing the enduring appeal of their music.
- The music video for "Falling In & Out Of Love" features classic 80s rock video tropes, including dramatic close-ups, performance shots, and a touch of moody atmosphere.
- The band's reunion in the 2010s saw Lorraine Lewis perform with a new lineup, keeping the spirit of Femme Fatale alive for a new generation of fans.