Carrie

Revisit the emotion of Europe's massive hit "Carrie"! This iconic 1987 Soft Rock power ballad captivated audiences worldwide. Known for its soaring keyboards, heartfelt vocals by Joey Tempest, and unforgettable chorus, it remains one of the most enduring love songs of the 80s rock era.

Released as a single in 1987 from their blockbuster 1986 album The Final Countdown, "Carrie" became a global phenomenon for the Swedish band Europe. A quintessential power ballad, the song perfectly embodies the era's Soft Rock sensibilities with its prominent keyboard melody (co-written by keyboardist Mic Michaeli), emotive vocals, and a structure that builds dynamically to a powerful, arena-ready chorus.

"Carrie" climbed high on charts across the globe, reaching the top 10 in numerous countries including the US, showcasing a softer, more melodic side of Europe compared to some of their harder rock anthems. Its poignant theme of parting ways resonated deeply with listeners. Decades later, it stands as one of the most recognizable power ballads of the 1980s, a timeless love song capturing bittersweet farewells.

SONG MEANING: "Carrie" tells the story of a poignant goodbye between two people who still seem to care for each other but recognize that circumstances or changing feelings require them to part ways ("Things they change my friend... it's not the same"). It expresses sadness over the separation, acknowledges uncertainty about reuniting ("Maybe we'll meet again somewhere"), and reflects on whether the timing ("the right time") was ever truly right for their love to last.