Larry Flick from Billboard described "Why Must We Wait Until Tonight" as "a pleading ballad, that derives much of its drama and intensity from La Tina's incomparable vocal style." He added, "Plunking piano/synth riffs click over a shuffling and percussive beat, with just a subtle touch of Hammond organ here and there to provide a blues subtext."[1] Troy J. Augusto from Cash Box stated that it is "a showcase for Turner's vocal prowess and should see no resistance at hit or adult radio formats." He also complimented the songwriters for "giving the ballad a dramatic grandeur that few could handle. Turner, of course, pulls it off with ease, the result is one of her most accessible single releases ever."[2]
A reviewer from The Daily Vault deemed "the sensuous rendering" as "almost as good", as "What's Love Got to Do With It".[3] Dave Sholin from the Gavin Report commented, "The lyrics speak of fine wine, something that defines Tina Turner's amazing artistry—which just keeps getting better. Writers/producers Bryan Adams and Mutt Lange give her the words and the melody and she does the rest. By the way, if you're one of the few who haven't seen the movie What's Love Got To Do With It yet, do it tonight!"[4] Alan Jones from Music Week gave the song four out of five, stating that the singer "offers one of her more relaxed vocal performances" on a "pleasant" ballad.[5]
Track listings
European and Japanese CD single; UK 7-inch and cassette single
"Why Must We Wait Until Tonight?" (7-inch edit) – 4:30