About the song
“My Heart Will Go On” is an iconic song recorded by the renowned Canadian singer Celine Dion. It serves as the theme for James Cameron’s 1997 epic romance film *Titanic*. The song was composed by the illustrious James Horner, with heartfelt lyrics penned by Will Jennings. It was produced by Horner himself, alongside Walter Afanasieff and Simon Franglen. Released as a single on November 24, 1997, by Columbia and Epic, the song also featured on Dion’s fifth English-language album, *Let’s Talk About Love*, and the official *Titanic* soundtrack.
James Horner initially composed the basis of “My Heart Will Go On” as a motif for the *Titanic* soundtrack. The idea of developing it into a full song came later, although director James Cameron was initially hesitant about ending the film with a pop song. However, after hearing a demo, Cameron agreed to its inclusion. The final version, arranged by Afanasieff, was nothing short of mesmerizing. The accompanying music video was directed by Bille Woodruff.
“My Heart Will Go On” quickly became Celine Dion’s signature song, topping the charts in more than 25 countries and becoming the best-selling single of 1998. With over 18 million copies sold worldwide, it ranks as the second-best-selling single by a female artist in music history, only outstripped by Whitney Houston’s “I Will Always Love You.” The song’s success is further underscored by its inclusion in the “Songs of the Century” list by the Recording Industry Association of America and the National Endowment for the Arts.
Dion’s live performance of the song at the 2017 Billboard Music Awards, commemorating the 20th anniversary of *Titanic*, was a testament to its enduring legacy. Prior to the film’s release, studio executives were anxious about its potential commercial failure, having invested $800,000 in the soundtrack. Cameron’s eventual acceptance of the song helped to alleviate these concerns, especially as it aligned with the anxious executives’ hopes for a hit theme song.
Interestingly, the song was initially intended for Norwegian singer Sissel Kyrkjebø. However, Simon Franglen suggested Celine Dion, with whom he had previously collaborated. Despite her initial reluctance, Dion was convinced by her husband and producer, René Angélil, to record a demo. This demo, remarkably recorded in one take, was what was ultimately used in the film, though Dion re-recorded it for her album release.
Critically acclaimed, “My Heart Will Go On” received praise for Dion’s powerful vocals and the song’s stirring melody. It earned multiple prestigious awards, including the 1998 Academy Award for Best Original Song and four Grammy Awards in 1999, including Record of the Year and Song of the Year. The song also won the Golden Globe Award for Best Original Song in 1998 and was named one of the best movie songs of all time by various media outlets.
Despite some criticism over the years, mainly due to its overexposure, the song remains a beloved classic. It is often performed by Dion in her concerts, consistently moving audiences with its emotional depth and timeless appeal. “My Heart Will Go On” not only captured the essence of *Titanic*’s romantic tragedy but also secured its place in the annals of music history as one of the most celebrated songs of all time.
Video
Lyrics
Every night in my dreams
I see you, I feel you
That is how I know you go on
Far across the distance
And spaces between us
You have come to show you go on
Near, far, wherever you are
I believe that the heart does go on
Once more, you open the door
And you’re here in my heart
And my heart will go on and on
Love can touch us one time
And last for a lifetime
And never let go ’til we’re gone
Love was when I loved you
One true time I’d hold to
In my life, we’ll always go on
Near, far, wherever you are
I believe that the heart does go on (why does the heart go on?)
Once more, you open the door
And you’re here in my heart
And my heart will go on and on
You’re here, there’s nothing I fear
And I know that my heart will go on
We’ll stay forever this way
You are safe in my heart and
My heart will go on and on