34 Years Ago, This Bryan Adams Song Spent Seven Weeks at No.1 on the Billboard Hot 100

34 Years Ago, Bryan Adams' Song Took Seven Weeks at No.1 on Billboard Hot 100

Bryan Adams’ iconic track Everything I Do ruled the Billboard Hot 100 chart for seven weeks, becoming one of the most memorable hits of the 1990s. During that era, movie soundtracks often matched or surpassed the success of the films themselves.

The Success of Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves

In 1991, the swashbuckling film Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves, starring Kevin Costner, was a massive box office hit, earning $390.5 million worldwide against a budget estimated between $48 and $60 million. Although Costner’s performance received mixed reviews, the movie was a popular, family-friendly adventure appealing to all ages. This Hollywood retelling of English folklore captivated audiences not only through its story but also via its soundtrack.

The Impact of Bryan Adams' Soundtrack

The song "(Everything I Do) I Do It For You" was central to the soundtrack's success and helped boost the film's popularity. Written for Adams' sixth studio album Waking Up the Neighbours in 1991, the power ballad also served as the lead single for the movie's soundtrack.

Surprisingly, for a song that sold 15 million copies and topped the Billboard Hot 100 for seven weeks, "(Everything I Do) I Do It For You" was written in only 45 minutes.

Adams collaborated with producer Mutt Lange and started composing after receiving a tape from the film’s soundtrack composer, Michael Kamen.

Why the Song Endures

Author's summary: Bryan Adams' quickly written power ballad became a defining 90s hit, elevating the Robin Hood soundtrack and resonating across generations.

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Collider Collider — 2025-11-05

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