ROCK MOMENT – Extreme ‘More Than Words’
When Extreme stepped into the studio in 1990 to record Extreme II: Pornograffitti, they were still trying to define themselves in a crowded hard-rock landscape. The album itself was ambitious—part concept record, part musical playground. It blended funk-metal, sharp-edged rock, blistering guitar heroics, and thoughtful social commentary. Tracks like ‘Get the Funk Out,’ ‘Decadence Dance,’ and ‘Money (In God We Trust)’ showcased the band’s technical abilities and their eagerness to push beyond typical glam-metal formulas. But nestled among these high-energy songs were a few quieter moments, and ‘More Than Words’ was the gentlest of all.
Written by Gary Cherone and Nuno Bettencourt long before the album was fully shaped, the song stood out immediately. Bettencourt had crafted a warm, intricate acoustic guitar arrangement, while Cherone wrote lyrics about authenticity—love demonstrated through actions rather than repeated clichés. In the context of Pornograffitti, a record centered on excess and the illusions of fame, ‘More Than Words’ served as a surprising emotional anchor.
Producer Michael Wagener, known for his work with heavier bands, recognized the track’s power. During recording he insisted the duo keep the arrangement stark: just vocals, acoustic guitar, and a few handclaps. The minimalist setup captured a raw honesty, and the take they recorded together—face to face in the studio—became the final version.
When Pornograffitti was released in 1990, it didn’t immediately break through. But once ‘More Than Words’ hit MTV in 1991, everything changed. The simple black-and-white video sent album sales soaring and brought new attention to the band’s eclectic musicianship. The single reached No. 1, and its success helped Pornograffitti achieve multi-platinum status.
More than three decades later, the album is remembered not only for its flashy funk-metal edge but also for the heartfelt ballad that proved Extreme had far more range than anyone expected. ‘More Than Words’ became the soul of Pornograffitti, the song that softened its sharp corners and left a lasting mark on rock history.
