The Meaning Behind The Song: Gold by Spandau Ballet

When Spandau Ballet released “Gold” in 1983, it quickly became one of their biggest hits, reaching number two on the UK charts and number 29 on the US charts. The song is known for its catchy melody and uplifting lyrics, but what is the meaning behind the song? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at “Gold” and explore its deeper meaning.

The Lyrics of “Gold”

Before we delve into the meaning of the song, let’s examine its lyrics:

Thank you for coming home
Sorry that the chairs are all worn
I left them here I could have sworn
These are my salad days
Slowly being eaten away
Just another play for today
Oh, but I’m proud of you, but I’m proud of you
Nothing left to make me feel small
Luck has left me standing so tall, so tall
Gold
Always believe in your soul
You’ve got the power to know
You’re indestructible, always believe in
‘Cause you are, Gold

The Inspiration for “Gold”

According to lead singer Tony Hadley, “Gold” was inspired by the 1964 Olympic Games in Tokyo. The Olympic motto is “Citius, Altius, Fortius,” which means “Faster, Higher, Stronger,” and Hadley was struck by the idea of striving for excellence and the desire to be the best. He wanted to write a song that captured that spirit of achievement and inspired people to pursue their dreams.

The Symbolism of Gold

In the song, “Gold” is a metaphor for the best that we can be. It represents the pursuit of excellence, the drive to accomplish great things, and the confidence to believe in ourselves. The chorus urges listeners to “always believe in your soul” and to recognize that they are “indestructible.” The message is one of empowerment and self-belief, encouraging listeners to reach for the stars and never give up on their dreams.

The Legacy of “Gold”

“Gold” has become a timeless anthem that has resonated with people across the globe. Its catchy melody and inspiring lyrics have made it a classic of the 1980s, and its message of self-belief and determination is just as relevant today as it was when the song was first released. The song has been covered by numerous artists and has appeared in TV shows, movies, and commercials. It continues to inspire and uplift listeners, reminding them that they have the power to achieve greatness.

FAQs

1. Was “Gold” inspired by the Olympics?

Yes, lead singer Tony Hadley has stated that the song was inspired by the 1964 Olympic Games in Tokyo and the idea of striving for excellence.

2. What does the word “Gold” symbolize in the song?

“Gold” is a metaphor for the best that we can be. It represents the pursuit of excellence, the drive to accomplish great things, and the confidence to believe in ourselves.

3. What is the message of “Gold”?

The message of “Gold” is one of empowerment and self-belief, encouraging listeners to reach for the stars and never give up on their dreams.

4. What has been the legacy of “Gold”?

“Gold” has become a timeless anthem that has resonated with people across the globe. Its message of self-belief and determination is just as relevant today as it was when the song was first released.

5. Who has covered “Gold”?

“Gold” has been covered by numerous artists, including David Bowie, Simple Minds, and Owl City.

6. What TV shows and movies has “Gold” appeared in?

“Gold” has appeared in TV shows such as “The Office” and “The Umbrella Academy,” as well as in movies like “Charlie’s Angels” and “The Fighter.”

7. What is the significance of the line “Nothing left to make me feel small”?

The line “Nothing left to make me feel small” represents a sense of empowerment and self-confidence that comes from believing in oneself and achieving great things.

8. What is the meaning behind the line “Slowly being eaten away”?

The line “Slowly being eaten away” represents the idea that our time on earth is limited and that we must make the most of every moment.

9. What does the line “Sorry that the chairs are all worn” mean?

The line “Sorry that the chairs are all worn” is a metaphor for the fleeting nature of life and the passage of time.

10. What is the “salad days” referred to in the song?

The phrase “salad days” refers to a time of youth and inexperience, when everything seems new and exciting.

11. What is the origin of the band name “Spandau Ballet”?

The band name “Spandau Ballet” was inspired by a piece of graffiti found in a Berlin nightclub that read “Spandau Ballet.”

12. What other hits did Spandau Ballet have?

Spandau Ballet had several other hits in the 1980s, including “True,” “Only When You Leave,” and “Through the Barricades.”