What is a power ballad?

[byebyepride.livejournal.com]

I am watching The Hits '50 Greatest Power Ballads', or at least that's what it claims to be. Now, 'Winds of Change' -- that's a power ballad. But 'Angels' (Robbie), surely that's just a ballad? The wikipedia entry suggests that Christina Aguilera's 'Beautiful' counts (that's on now) but does REM's Everybody Hurts? (just sh!te, but also just a ballad!). I hadn't thought of 'Don't Speak' as a power ballad, but it seems to fit the bill.
Perhaps I am being old-fashioned and stuck in the past by expecting a little more rock to my power ballads?
Perhaps we should have a poll, if only I knew how.

Comments

[getbacknow.livejournal.com]

One important aspect of the power ballad is that there has to be something BOMBASTIC in it. The obvious examples are Heaven by Warrant and Total Eclipse of the Heart.

[justfanoe.livejournal.com]

Question: Is "Eternal Flame" a power-ballad?

[getbacknow.livejournal.com]

I'd say no...I mean, based on my very scientific analysis, the end part where Susanna goes to town and the rest of the band members kick in is pretty powerful. But most power ballads have this sense of power throughout the song, where with Eternal Flame it really only kicks in near the last part. With Alone by Heart, for example, the verses are slow but they hint at the powerful chorus. I think power ballads are really rock songs at heart, and they're always on the verge of being too indulgent (if they aren't there already)...so I don't think Eternal Flame would qualify.

[katstevens.livejournal.com]

Nope. Not mental enough!