Introduction
Donna Summer’s “This Time I Know It’s For Real”: A Pop Legacy
“This Time I Know It’s For Real” isn’t just a song by Donna Summer, the “Queen of Disco.” Released in 1989, it marked a turning point in her career and became a defining hit for a new generation of listeners.
Summer dominated the disco scene in the 70s with iconic tracks like “Bad Girls” and “I Feel Love.” But by the late 80s, disco had waned, and pop music had embraced a new sound. Summer, ever the trendsetter, decided to evolve too.
She teamed up with the Stock Aitken Waterman (SAW) production trio, known for their Hi-NRG Europop sound. While some fans worried this was a departure from Summer’s roots, “This Time I Know It’s For Real” proved to be a successful blend.
The song, co-written by Summer herself, carried the infectious energy of SAW’s production, but Summer’s powerful vocals ensured it wasn’t just another catchy tune. The lyrics spoke of a newfound love, a love so strong the singer declares, “This time I know it’s for real.”
The gamble paid off. “This Time I Know It’s For Real” became Summer’s biggest hit in the UK since the disco era, reaching number three. It also charted well in the US and Canada, becoming her 14th and final US Top 10 hit.
Though her career trajectory shifted after this, “This Time I Know It’s For Real” remains a testament to Summer’s adaptability and her enduring status as a pop music icon. It’s a song that bridges eras, a dance floor anthem with a powerful message of love and hope.