About the song
“I Will Survive” is a timeless anthem that transcends generations, emblematic of strength and resilience. Released in October 1978 by American singer Gloria Gaynor, the song quickly established itself as a landmark in the disco era and a powerful testament to personal empowerment. Featured as the second single from Gaynor’s sixth studio album, *Love Tracks*, this iconic track was penned by Freddie Perren and Dino Fekaris, who drew inspiration from Fekaris’s own experiences with adversity.
The lyrics of “I Will Survive” capture a profound narrative of overcoming a painful breakup and discovering inner fortitude. This narrative resonated deeply with audiences, cementing the song’s status as a beacon of female empowerment. Its vibrant, danceable rhythm and empowering message made it a staple in discos and a rallying cry for those facing personal challenges. The song’s impact was immediate and substantial: it soared to the top of the US Billboard Hot 100, the UK Singles Chart, and the Irish Singles Chart, where it remained a fixture of popular music. Its success was further solidified with a Platinum certification from the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) and accolades including Best Disco Recording at the 22nd Annual Grammy Awards.
The story behind “I Will Survive” adds to its allure. Fekaris, reflecting on his time of joblessness after leaving Motown Records, found solace and inspiration in his television’s programming and resolved to persevere in his songwriting career. His collaboration with Freddie Perren produced a track that, despite initially being sidelined, would become a monumental hit. Gloria Gaynor, known for her compelling performances, recorded the song in a constrained setting, having just undergone surgery. Her personal trials lent authenticity to her delivery, further enhancing the song’s emotional power.
In 2016, the Library of Congress recognized the song’s cultural significance by preserving it in the National Recording Registry. Billboard also acknowledged its enduring appeal by ranking it among the “500 Best Pop Songs of All Time” in 2023. Today, “I Will Survive” remains more than just a disco classic; it is an enduring symbol of resilience and empowerment that continues to inspire and uplift listeners around the world.
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Lyrics
At first I was afraid, I was petrified
Thinking I could live without you by my side
And after spending nights
Thinking how you did me wrong
I grew strong
And I learned how to get along
Now you’re back
From outer space
And I find you here
With that sad look upon your face
I should’ve changed that stupid lock
Or made you leave your key
If I’d’ve known for a second
You’d be back to bother me
Go on, go, walk out the door
Turn around now
You’re not welcome anymore
You’re the one who tried to hurt me with goodbye
Think I’d crumble?
You think I’d lay down and die?
No, not I, I will survive
Long as I know how to love, I know I’ll stay alive
I’ve got my life to live
And all my love to give and
I will survive
I, I, I will survive
It took all my strength not to fall apart
Trying with all my might to mend my broken heart
I spent so many nights feeling sorry for myself
How I cried
But now I hold my head up high
And you see me, somebody new
I’m not that lonely little person
Still in love with you
Now you come droppin’ in
Expectin’ me to be free
Now I’m saving my lovin’
For someone who’s loving me
Go on and go, walk out the door
Turn around now
You’re not welcome anymore
You’re the one who tried to hurt me with goodbye
Thinkin’ I’d crumble
Did you think I’d lay down and die?
No, not I, I will survive
Long as I know how to love, I know I’ll stay alive
I’ve got my life to live, and all my love to give
And I will survive
I, I will survive
Go on, go, walk out the door
Turn around now
You’re not welcome anymore
You’re the one who tried to hurt me with goodbye
Think I’d crumble?
You think I’d lay down and die?
No, not I, I will survive
Long as I know how to love
I know I’ll stay alive
I’ve got my life to live
And all my love to give and
I will survive
I, I, I will survive