"I Didn't Mean to Turn You...

Sugar, I don't want your situation! Experience Robert Palmer's powerful 1986 rock interpretation of "I Didn't Mean to Turn You On." A hit single from his Riptide album, Palmer transformed this R&B track into a driving rock anthem with his signature cool delivery.

Released as a successful single following the massive success of "Addicted to Love," Palmer's version took the Jam & Lewis-penned song (originally a hit for Cherrelle) and infused it with hard rock guitars and a driving beat. This rock rendition showcased his unique ability to blend soul, funk, and rock elements seamlessly.

This 1986 track features Palmer's forceful vocals delivering lyrics about setting boundaries over a compelling funk rock groove. His cover of "I Didn't Mean to Turn You On," merging R&B/soul origins with pop rock accessibility, became another signature hit defining his mid-80s peak.

SONG MEANING: Originally written by Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis for Cherrelle, the song is sung from the perspective of someone rejecting unwanted romantic advances. The singer clarifies that any perceived signals were unintentional ("I didn't mean to turn you on") and firmly establishes boundaries, stating they only intended friendship ("I only wanted just to be your friend").