Loving On Borrowed Time: A Walk Down Memory Lane with Gladys Knight & Bill Medley
If you’re a sucker for soundtracks that feel like they’re straight outta some cinematic dream, Loving On Borrowed Time (Love Theme From Cobra) is one of those albums that’ll grab your heart and not let go. Released in 1986 under Scotti Bros. Records, this gem came out swinging in the UK, Germany, and Canada, bringing together two powerhouse voices—Gladys Knight and Bill Medley—for something truly unforgettable. It’s part of the Stage & Screen genre, but honestly? This isn’t just background music; it’s an emotional rollercoaster.
Now, I gotta talk about "Cobra" first because, man, it slaps harder than Stallone’s punches in the movie itself. There’s something raw and gritty about how the track builds up, almost like it knows it’s setting the stage for action. The synths hit just right, giving off major 80s vibes without feeling cheesy. And when Bill Medley’s voice kicks in, oh boy—it’s smooth but tough, kinda like leather on a motorcycle jacket. You can practically picture the neon-drenched streets while listening to it. It’s not just a song; it’s a vibe.
Then there’s “Bourgie’ Bourgie,” which feels like stepping into a smoky jazz club where everyone's dressed to kill. If you’ve ever had a night where you felt too fly for your own good, this track nails that energy perfectly. Gladys Knight brings her signature soulful swagger here, and damn does she make it work. Every note drips with attitude, like she’s daring you to keep up. Honestly, whenever this plays, I find myself walking just a little taller, even if I’m just heading to the fridge for snacks.
The rest of the album holds its own too—“Taste Of Bitter Love” hits deep, and the titular track “Loving On Borrowed Time” wraps things up with a bittersweet bow. But what sticks with me most is how these songs don’t just exist as part of a soundtrack—they live and breathe on their own. They remind you of love, danger, heartbreak, and all the messy stuff life throws at ya.
Reflecting on this record now, it’s wild to think about how much music has changed since ’86. Yet somehow, this album still feels timeless, like finding an old mixtape tucked away in a drawer. Maybe that’s why it sticks with me—it’s got soul, grit, and a whole lot of heart. Or maybe it’s just proof that sometimes, borrowing time ain’t such a bad thing after all.
