The Meaning Behind The Song: I’m Still Standing by Elton John
Elton John’s hit song “I’m Still Standing” is a fun and energetic song that has become an anthem of resilience and determination. The lyrics and upbeat tempo of the song make it feel like an anthem of survival and overcoming challenges. The song is a personal testament of Elton John’s strength and resilience as a musician and as a human being. In this article, we will delve deeper into the meaning behind the song “I’m Still Standing.”
The Origin of “I’m Still Standing”
“I’m Still Standing” was released in 1983 as a single from Elton John’s album “Too Low for Zero.” The song peaked at No. 4 on the UK charts. The song was written by Elton John and his long-time collaborator Bernie Taupin. The song is a celebration of life, love, and survival in the music industry, as Elton reflects on his life and journey.
The Lyrics of “I’m Still Standing”
The lyrics of “I’m Still Standing” are empowering and serve as a powerful motivation for people. The opening line of the song says it all: “You could never know what it’s like, your blood like winter freezes just like ice.” The song is an anthem of survival against all the odds.
The chorus is where the true power of the song takes hold. The lyrics of the chorus paints a compelling picture of someone who has been struck down, but who refuses to be beaten. The lyrics state, “Don’t you know that I’m still standing, better than I ever did. Looking like a true survivor, feeling like a little kid. And I’m still standing after all this time, picking up the pieces of my life without you on my mind.”
The lyrics communicate the message of survival after being knocked down and the determination to rise up again and rebuild one’s life.
The Inspiration behind “I’m Still Standing”
It is well known by now that “I’m Still Standing” was partly inspired by Elton John’s personal struggles with drugs. The song was written during Elton’s time in drug rehab. The song was a reflection of his journey to rehabilitation and his tenacity to get back on his feet despite his struggles.
Bernie Taupin, the co-writer of the song, summed up the inspiration behind the song by saying: “A lot of people were writing us off at that time. And there was Elton, fresh out of drug rehab, looking absolutely fabulous. He was really resilient.; he bounced right back with this attitude of ‘fuck you all, I’m still here.'”
“Too Low for Zero” was Elton John’s first album after rehab, and “I’m Still Standing” was the lead single. It was a triumphant return to the music industry and a reminder to his fans that he was still the same superstar they knew and loved.
The Reception of “I’m Still Standing”
“I’m Still Standing” has been embraced by fans from all over the world. The song has become an anthem of hope and resilience in the face of adversity. The song’s upbeat tempo and powerful lyrics were a major hit, and the song remains a classic in Elton John’s discography.
The song has even made its way into popular culture, such as in the 2016 animated movie “Sing,” where a singing gorilla performs the song. The song remains a staple of Elton John’s live performances and is a fan favorite.
The Legacy of “I’m Still Standing”
“I’m Still Standing” has had a lasting impact on musicians and fans alike. The song has inspired many people to keep going despite their struggles. The song has also been covered by various artists, including Jennifer Hudson and Taron Egerton, who played Elton John in the biopic “Rocketman.”
The song has also served as a reminder to Elton John himself to keep going, despite the challenges he has faced in his life. In a 2013 interview, he said: “I’m very resilient, a lot more than people think. I still love playing and singing and doing things. I’m still standing and I’m still here.”
Conclusion
“I’m Still Standing” is a timeless classic that has inspired many people to overcome their struggles. The song serves as a reminder that no matter what life throws at us, we have the strength to pick ourselves up and move forward. The song has become an anthem of resilience, determination, and hope. It is a testament to Elton John’s strength as a person and as a musician, and it will continue to inspire people for generations to come.
