Gloria Gaynor - I Will Survive - Lyrics Meaning

Written by Freddie Perren and Dino Fekaris, the song was recorded by Gloria Gaynor and released in October 1978.

One of the most famous disco songs of all time, it received considerable airplay in 1979 and landed in the #1 spot on the Billboard Hot 100. In 1980, it received the Grammy Award for Best Disco Recording (which was also the only year the award was given). The song enjoys popularity to this day and is a definite fan favorite amongst Karaoke singers.

Weren't you the one who tried to hurt me with goodbye

Did you think I'd crumble? Did you think I'd lay down and die?

Oh no, not I. I will survive

"I Will Survive" is written from the perspective of a narrator who was afraid to leave a relationship, but found the strength to do so and, more importantly, to realize that she could - and would - make it on her own.

It has become an anthem of empowerment for females everywhere and, in addition, has brought awareness to those with HIV / AIDS and given inspiration to survivors everywhere. In fact, according to her autobiography, Gaynor drew strength from the song herself, which she recorded while she was recovering from a serious back injury.