30th Anniversary Cover

Song #16 Gloria Gaynor – I Will Survive

Why I Picked It:  I just had the privilege of seeing Gloria Gaynor perform the song live tonight at the Grammy Museum and she’s very inspiring, just like this song.  It’s the 30th anniversary of this anthem that you can just keep keepin’ on.

Why I Like It:  The idea of survival creates images of struggle and suffering.  This song encapsulates the moment – the burst of energy – that pulls you out from whatever dark, depth you’ve found yourself in.  It does it at first quietly in the opening reflection:

At first I was afraid, I was petrified – kept thinking I could never live without you by my side.

And just builds from that idea of “at first”, until that moment where you get your 180-moving and succeeding:

Go on now go.  Walk the door.  Just turn around now ’cause you’re not welcome here anymore.

And of course:

I’ve got all my life to live.
I’ve got all my love to give.
I will survive.  I will survive.

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-cct