A Deeper Look into a Timeless Classic: Jeff Chang's 'Love Like the Tide' (爱如潮水)
Do you know “Love Like the Tide” (爱如潮水), one of C-Pop’s greatest ballads, sung by Jeff Chang (张信哲)? Released in 1993, this song has touched the hearts of countless listeners for over 30 years and remains a masterpiece that earned Chang the title “Emperor of Ballads” with its sorrowful melody and poetic lyrics.
“Love Like the Tide” is not just a hit song of its era; it possesses the power to resonate with anyone who has experienced love and separation, transcending generations. In this post, let’s delve into the special charm of this song and the deep meaning it holds.
The ‘Emperor of Ballads’ and a Legendary Production Team
As the signature song of Taiwanese singer Jeff Chang, his clear, mournful, and beautiful voice maximizes the track’s lyrical atmosphere, captivating the listener’s heart.
Behind this song’s success are legendary figures of the Chinese music scene: lyricist Jonathan Lee (李宗盛), composer Li Fai-fai (黎沸挥), and arranger Bobby Da (鲍比达). The story behind lyricist Jonathan Lee’s production is particularly fascinating. Initially, Lee envisioned a rugged, masculine voice, weathered by life’s hardships, to sing the song. However, he gave it a trial run with Jeff Chang, who was then a fresh-faced young man just discharged from military service. Lee was so impressed by Chang’s delicate yet powerfully emotive expression that he ultimately gave him the song. Chang’s pure voice, contrary to expectations, perfectly depicted a man’s vulnerable and pure love, creating an unexpected synergy.
Into the Lyrics: A Confession of Love Rushing in Like the Tide
The greatest appeal of “Love Like the Tide” lies in its poetic lyrics that explore the essence of love. Instead of the full lyrics, let’s savor the song’s depth through a few core phrases.
The line that encapsulates the song’s theme is undoubtedly this one:
我的爱如潮水, 爱如潮水将我向你推
(wǒ de ài rú cháoshuǐ, ài rú cháoshuǐ jiāng wǒ xiàng nǐ tuī)
“My love is like the tide, love like the tide pushes me towards you”<From Jeff Chang - “Love Like the Tide” (爱如潮水)>
This metaphor, comparing the immense and overwhelming power of love to a “tide” (潮水) that cannot be controlled by one’s will, encapsulates all the emotions of the song.
Furthermore, another line that shows how devoted and unconditional this love is also touches the heart:
不问你为何流眼泪, 不在乎你心里还有谁
(bú wèn nǐ wèihé liú yǎnlèi, bú zàihū nǐ xīnlǐ hái yǒu shéi)
“I won’t ask why you’re crying, I don’t care who else is in your heart”<From Jeff Chang - “Love Like the Tide” (爱如潮水)>
It portrays a love that transcends everything, willing to embrace the other person’s past and scars.
Why is it Popular Across Generations?
The reasons for the long-lasting love for “Love Like the Tide” are clear. It sings of the universal emotions of love, and Jeff Chang’s unique vocal talent and sensitivity maximize the song’s charm. The perfect harmony of its lyrical melody and poetic words has made it an eternal classic. Not only did it sweep various music charts, but it was also officially recognized for its artistic value when it was named one of the “Top 10 Golden Songs of the Century” by Shanghai Starlight (上海星光) in 2000.
“Love Like the Tide” is a song that offers deep emotion and comfort that transcends time. If you haven’t heard it yet, why not give it a listen? Experience the overwhelming feeling of love rushing in like the tide.