1978 Yacht Rock Breakup Anthem Became a 'Sweet, Sad' Ode to Lost Love

While there are plenty of breakup-themed songs out there that are perfect for listening to when you're feeling hurt or angry or nostalgic, there aren't quite as many from the perspective of someone who's simply ready to move on...but still wants to stay in touch.

One notable exception is Todd Rundgren's 1978 hit "Can We Still Be Friends," which was the first single from his album Hermit of Mink Hollow.

According to American Songwriter, the multi-instrumentalist and singer had recently separated from his girlfriend, model Bebe Buell (mother of Liv Tyler), when Hermit of Mink Hollow was made. However, in the years since, Rundgren has denied that "Can We Still Be Friends" is about his breakup with Buell (or any other specific ex, for that matter).

Ultimately, it doesn't really matter who the song is about, because the story it tells is so relatable for so many people. In the first verse, Rundgren tries to gently introduce the idea of splitting up to his partner:

"We can't play this game anymore / But can we still be friends? / Things just can't go on like before / But can we still be friends?"

The lyrics go on to point out that while the couple had "something to learn," it's now "time for the wheel to turn." And even though they "made a mistake," he wants to remain on good terms.

The remaining verses are a bit less optimistic, acknowledging how painful things have become:

"It's a strange, sad affair / Sometimes seems like we just don't care / Don't waste time feeling hurt / We've been through hell together"

"We awoke from our dream / Things are not always what they seem / Memories linger on / It's like a sweet, sad old song"

'Can We Still Be Friends' made a resurgence decades later

A new generation of fans was introduced to "Can We Still Be Friends" when Rundgren scored the classic 1994 Farrelly Brothers movie Dumb and Dumber. The track was featured prominently in the film, which famously starred Jim Carrey and Jeff Daniels as a pair of road-tripping buddies.

The song was also included on the 2001 soundtrack for Vanilla Sky, starring Tom Cruise. And over two decades later, fans are still listening: At the time of this writing, "Can We Be Friends" has been streamed 19,709,201 times on Spotify alone.

Related: 1970s Rock Legend, 77, Announces Summer Tour: 'So Excited I Could Cry'

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This story was originally published May 4, 2026 at 6:12 PM.