Behind The Song: The Midas Touch of Pat Benatar and “We Belong”

Episode Release Date: January 31, 2024
Host: Janda Lane
Podcast: Behind The Song by The Drive | Hubbard Radio

Introduction: A Timeless Union in Rock

In the January 31, 2024 episode of Behind The Song, host Janda Lane delves into the enduring partnership of Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo, exploring both their personal union and their monumental contributions to classic rock. This episode highlights the creation and legacy of the iconic 1984 love anthem, "We Belong."

Pat Benatar’s Early Journey and Musical Genesis

The episode begins by tracing Pat Benatar's early life in Long Island, where her exceptional vocal talent was evident even to her teachers. Initially aiming for a career in musical theater with plans to attend Juilliard, Benatar took a detour, enrolling at Stony Brook University before leaving at 19 to marry her high school sweetheart, Dennis Benatar.

Living in Richmond, Virginia, Pat worked at a local bank—a mundane job that could have remained her path if not for a pivotal moment. Inspired by a concert performance by Liza Minnelli in the area, Benatar decided to pursue her true passion: music. Quitting her banking job, she began performing in clubs, eventually moving to New York in 1975 to further her singing career.

Her breakthrough came in 1978 when a Chrysalis Records executive discovered her, leading to a record deal. Amidst this burgeoning career, Benatar divorced Dennis in 1979 and met Neil Giraldo, a guitarist from Rick Derringer's band. Recognizing their musical synergy, producer Mike Chapman facilitated their collaboration, setting the stage for their future success.

Formation of a Musical Powerhouse

Pat Benatar’s debut album, In the Heat of the Night (1979), featured the hit single "Heartbreaker" and "We Live for Love," both of which contributed to the album’s platinum status. By 1980, Neil Giraldo had joined her band, taking on the role of musical director and shaping the sound that would define Benatar’s career.

The release of Crimes of Passion in 1980 skyrocketed Benatar to international fame, boasting platinum sales and hits like "Hit Me With Your Best Shot" and "Fire and Ice" from the subsequent album, Precious Time (1981). Despite his commitments with Rick Springfield, Giraldo remained integral to Benatar’s success, exemplified by his work on Springfield’s hit "Jessie's Girl."

In 1982, Benatar released Get Nervous, featuring "Shadows of the Night," a song penned by D.L. Byron. This track reached number 13 on the Billboard Hot 100, cementing Benatar and Giraldo’s status as a formidable duo in the rock scene. That same year, their personal bond deepened as they married in Hana, Hawaii, blending their professional and personal lives seamlessly.

The Birth of “We Belong”: From Strife to Harmony

The heart of the episode focuses on the creation of "We Belong," the lead single from Benatar’s fifth studio album, Tropico. Recorded at MCA Studios in Los Angeles, Tropico became a testament to the prolific partnership between Benatar and Giraldo, who were likened to having a "Midas touch" due to their string of hits.

"We Belong" was penned by Dan Navarro and the late Eric Lohan, former bandmates from Bon Motion who had a tumultuous relationship. After Navarro was fired from the band, Lohan unexpectedly reached out in September 1983 to collaborate again. Despite their differences, the two reunited for a songwriting session, resulting in "We Belong" within an hour and a half ([05:20] Co-host).

Navarro recounts, "We worked it out until the first two lines of the song said enough to draw the listener in," highlighting the song's compelling opening lyrics. The demo recording sessions, marked by late-night neighborly interruptions, eventually led to a song that would resonate globally, propelled by Benatar's powerful rendition.

Tragically, Eric Lohan passed away in 2012 due to ALS complications, but "We Belong" remains a testament to their brief yet impactful collaboration. Navarro acknowledges the serendipitous nature of the song's creation, stating, "We Belong was never again matched by the songwriting duo in terms of success" ([06:22] Co-host).

Impact and Legacy of “We Belong”

Released as a single in October 1984, "We Belong" soared to number five on the Billboard Hot 100, matching the success of Benatar’s earlier hit, "Love Is a Battlefield" ([08:17] Co-host). The song's universal theme of destined love, combined with Benatar’s emotive vocals, struck a chord with audiences worldwide.

The accompanying album, Tropico, not only solidified Benatar's status in rock but also coincided with personal milestones, including the couple's first pregnancy revealed during the making of the album's music videos. The song also earned Benatar a Grammy nomination, further attesting to its artistic and commercial success.

Enduring Partnership and Hall of Fame Induction

Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo's collaboration extended beyond music, embodying a harmonious personal and professional relationship. Their enduring partnership, marked by mutual respect and shared creativity, culminated in their induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2022. As Janda highlights, "Theirs has been an incredible union, both personally and professionally, and a perfect example of two people and now two hall of Famers who really do belong together" ([08:17] Narrator).

Conclusion: A Lasting Legacy in Rock

"We Belong" stands as a symbol of Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo’s unparalleled synergy, showcasing how personal harmony can translate into timeless music. Their story, from early struggles to global acclaim, underscores the power of collaboration and the enduring impact of classic rock anthems.

As Janda concludes, "Just like the song says, we belong together," celebrating a union that has not only shaped their lives but also left an indelible mark on the music industry.

Notable Quotes

• Co-host ([06:22]): "That day came out of the blue. And they were right. Those first two lines really do pull you in."

• Co-host ([07:09]): "We belong together is a love song rooted in the idea of two people destined to be together."

• Narrator ([08:22]): "In 2022, Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and rightly so."

Final Thoughts

This episode of Behind The Song offers a comprehensive look into the enduring legacy of Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo, illustrating how their combined talents and unwavering partnership have left a lasting imprint on the landscape of classic rock.