About the song
“I Am Woman,” an empowering anthem written by Australian musicians Helen Reddy and Ray Burton, resonates as a landmark in both feminist music and pop culture history. Originally featured on Reddy’s debut album “I Don’t Know How to Love Him” in 1971, the song gained prominence when it was re-recorded and released as a single in May 1972. This new version soared to number one on the charts, selling over a million copies and solidifying its place as a pivotal track in the women’s liberation movement.
The song’s genesis stemmed from Reddy’s personal journey and observations of women’s struggles and strengths. Frustrated by the lack of songs that reflected female empowerment, Reddy penned the lyrics with Burton, aiming to capture the resilience and spirit of women facing societal challenges, including dismissive attitudes and objectification. In interviews, Reddy recounted a moment of inspiration where the words “I am strong, I am invincible, I am woman” played in her mind, describing it as a divine message guiding her songwriting.
Ray Burton, collaborating closely with Reddy, crafted the musical arrangement that complemented her powerful lyrics. Drawing from his experience as a guitarist and songwriter, Burton shaped the melody and structure of “I Am Woman,” giving it a melodic force that resonated deeply with listeners. The song’s success was not immediate; initially overlooked, it gained traction after being featured in the film “Stand Up and Be Counted,” ultimately becoming a rallying cry for women across the globe.
Upon its release, “I Am Woman” quickly climbed the charts, becoming Capitol Records’ first number-one single since 1967. Its impact extended beyond music charts, sparking conversations and movements around gender equality and female empowerment. Reddy’s impassioned delivery and the song’s optimistic yet defiant lyrics struck a chord with audiences, making it a cultural touchstone of the 1970s counterculture era.
The song’s accolades include a Grammy Award for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance, marking a significant milestone as the first Australian-written song to achieve such recognition. Reddy’s acceptance speech notably thanked “God, because She makes everything possible,” underscoring the song’s bold declaration of feminine strength and resilience.
Decades later, “I Am Woman” continues to inspire and resonate, reaffirming its status as an enduring anthem for generations of women striving for equality and recognition. Its message of empowerment remains as relevant today as it did during its initial release, making it a timeless testament to the power of music to effect social change and celebrate the indomitable spirit of women everywhere.
Video
Lyrics
I am woman, hear me roar
In numbers too big to ignore
And I know too much to go back an’ pretend
‘Cause I’ve heard it all before
And I’ve been down there on the floor
And no one’s ever gonna keep me down again
Yes, I am wise
But it’s wisdom born of pain
Yes, I’ve paid the price
But look how much I’ve gained
If I have to, I can do anything
I am strong (strong)
I am invincible (invincible)
I am woman
You can bend but never break me
‘Cause it only serves to make me
More determined to achieve my final goal
And I come back even stronger
Not a novice any longer
‘Cause you’ve deepened the conviction in my soul
Yes, I am wise
But it’s wisdom born of pain
Yes, I’ve paid the price
But look how much I’ve gained
If I have to, I can do anything
I am strong (strong)
I am invincible (invincible)
I am woman
I am woman, watch me grow
See me standing toe to toe
As I spread my lovin’ arms across the land
But I’m still a little embryo
With such a long, long way to go
Until I make my brother understand
Oh yes, I am wise
But it’s wisdom born of pain
Yes, I’ve paid the price
But look how much I’ve gained
If I have to, I can face anything
I am strong (strong)
I am invincible (invincible)
I am woman
I am woman
I am invincible
I am strong
I am woman
I am invincible
I am strong
I am woman
I am woma