Aerosmith – I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing
Iconic Role of Aerosmith in Armageddon: How “I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing” Became a Cinematic Anthem
There’s something extraordinarily powerful about the connection between music and film. The right song can encapsulate a movie’s heart and soul, and occasionally, it can even transcend the film itself. One perfect example of this symbiosis is Aerosmith’s mega-hit “I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing,” which served as the official theme song for the 1998 sci-fi disaster film “Armageddon.” Let’s delve into the intriguing journey of how this Aerosmith anthem became a cinematic tour de force.
Aerosmith Meets Armageddon
When we think of Armageddon, one of the first things that come to mind is Aerosmith’s powerhouse ballad, “I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing.” But how did the quintessential Boston rock band, known for their blues-based hard rock music, end up providing the soundtrack for a Hollywood blockbuster?
The Aerosmith-Armageddon connection came about because of the film’s cast. Liv Tyler, the daughter of Aerosmith’s lead vocalist Steven Tyler, was playing a leading role in the film. This familial connection led to the film’s producers approaching Aerosmith to contribute to the soundtrack.
The band was initially hesitant, given that they had never recorded a song they didn’t write themselves. However, they decided to step outside their comfort zone for the sake of Liv Tyler’s burgeoning film career.
The Birth of a Cinematic Anthem by Aerosmith
“I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing” was written by professional songwriter Diane Warren, who was inspired by a Barbara Walters interview with James Brolin and Barbra Streisand. Brolin mentioned how he missed Streisand even when she was asleep next to him. This sentiment struck a chord with Warren, and she spun it into a love song that would eventually become Aerosmith’s first number one hit.
After Warren wrote the song, it was given to music producer Matt Serletic, who then presented it to Aerosmith. The band, after hearing the powerful composition, agreed to record it. And so, “I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing” was born.
Impact and Legacy
The song was released as the lead single from the film’s soundtrack and debuted at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 (a first for Aerosmith). It was also nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Song in 1999.
The song’s success propelled the Armageddon soundtrack to multi-platinum status. Furthermore, it solidified Aerosmith’s reputation as one of America’s premier rock bands and their versatility in transcending rock to record a romantic ballad.
Moreover, the song became iconic not just for the film, but also within Aerosmith’s discography. Even today, it remains one of the band’s most beloved and frequently performed songs.
In conclusion, the Aerosmith classic “I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing” has become an enduring symbol of the 1998 film Armageddon. It is a testament to the power of a great song in shaping the identity of a film and etching it into popular culture. Despite Aerosmith’s initial hesitation to record a song they didn’t write, the outcome was a chart-topping hit that remains relevant and loved today.
With its soaring melody, heartfelt lyrics, and Steven Tyler’s impassioned vocals, “I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing” has carved its place in cinematic history. For Aerosmith, it was a bold venture that ultimately paid off, leading to a unique legacy that links the worlds of music and film in a melodious harmony. And it all began with a sci-fi disaster film, a rising actress, and a band ready to take a risk for the love of music and family.
We appreciate your time and dedication in reading our article, “Aerosmith – I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing,” to its conclusion. For more of the finest classic rock music, make sure to follow our Facebook page, “Classic Rock Guitar”. We share exceptional selections every day. Thank you once again for your continued support and readership.
