Review
Cher's nineteenth studio album, "Heart of Stone," released on July 10, 1989, represents a monumental moment in her impressive career. In the wake of her Oscar victory for "Moonstruck" in 1987 and her shift back from the silver screen to the music stage, she unveiled this compelling pop-rock and adult contemporary album. With contributions from legendary talents like Peter Asher, Jon Bon Jovi, Diane Warren, and Desmond Child, Cher delivers a medley of impressive tunes that build on the style of her previous self-titled album.
One of the crowning achievements in "Heart of Stone" is the anthem "If I Could Turn Back Time," conceived by the powerhouse duo of Warren and Child. It ascended to the top of the charts in places as diverse as Australia and Norway, establishing its international acclaim. "Just Like Jesse James," another track adorned by Warren and Child's lyrical genius, also captured listeners' hearts worldwide, climbing to number eight on the charts.
Moving beyond mere smash hits, the heartfelt duet "After All" with Peter Cetera also garners attention, doubling as the love theme for the film "Chances Are" and marking Cher’s solo ascension on the Adult Contemporary chart. Songs like "Emotional Fire" and "Does Anybody Really Fall in Love Anymore?" exude unbound emotion, while the titular track "Heart of Stone," once recorded by Bucks Fizz, adds depth and variety to the album’s impressive lineup.
Commercially, "Heart of Stone" triumphed, and sold over four million copies by January 1991. It secured top spots around the globe, crowning in Australia and standing proud at numbers ten and seven in the States and the UK, respectively. Cher’s connection with the audience, stemming from her relentless dedication and unparalleled vocal delivery, ensures the album remains a favorite within her discography. Evidently, "Heart of Stone" stands as a testament to Cher’s unmatched versatility and gifted artistry. - Karl
