The Meaning Behind The Song: Gonna Build a Mountain by Sammy Davis Jr.
| Title | Gonna Build a Mountain |
|---|---|
| Artist | Sammy Davis Jr. |
| Writer/Composer | Anthony Newley & Leslie Bricusse |
| Album | What Kind of Fool Am I: And Other Show-Stoppers (1962) |
| Release Date | N/A |
| Genre | Rock/Pop |
| Duration | N/A |
| Producer | N/A |
When we listen to a song, we often get caught up in the melody, the rhythm, or the catchy chorus. However, some songs go beyond just being enjoyable to listen to and carry a deeper meaning. One such song is “Gonna Build a Mountain” by Sammy Davis Jr.
The song, written by Anthony Newley and Leslie Bricusse, was featured on Davis’ album “What Kind of Fool Am I: And Other Show-Stoppers” released in 1962. It is a powerful and inspirational tune that embodies the human spirit’s ambition and determination to overcome obstacles and achieve greatness.
Listening to the lyrics, we can feel the optimism and resilience that Davis conveys through his performance. The song opens with the lines “Gonna build a mountain, from a little hill. Gonna build me a mountain, ‘least I hope I will.” These words signify a desire to turn something small and insignificant into something grand and significant.
Throughout the song, Davis talks about building a mountain and hitches his aspirations to a daydream. He wants to push this daydream up a mountain slope, never giving up on his ambition. This symbolism represents the journey towards achieving one’s dreams and the perseverance required to make them a reality.
Additionally, Davis mentions building a heaven from a little hell. This line can be interpreted as finding beauty and happiness even in the most challenging circumstances. It speaks to the power of resilience and the ability to transform one’s life through determination and a positive mindset.
As the song progresses, Davis expresses his belief that if he builds his mountain with care and takes his daydream up the mountain, heaven will be waiting there. This notion represents the reward and fulfillment that come from pursuing one’s dreams diligently and never losing sight of the ultimate goal.
The lyrics also touch on the idea of leaving a legacy behind. Davis sings, “When I build that heaven as I will someday, and the Lord sends Gabriel to take me away, what a fine young son to take my place. I’ll leave a son in my heaven on earth with the good Lord’s grace.” These lines highlight the importance of leaving something behind that will continue to inspire and uplift others long after we are gone.
Personally, “Gonna Build a Mountain” holds a special meaning for me. As someone who has faced numerous challenges and obstacles in life, the song serves as a reminder that through determination and hard work, it is possible to overcome any adversity and achieve success.
I remember the first time I heard this song. I was going through a difficult period in my life, feeling defeated and hopeless. However, as the powerful vocals of Sammy Davis Jr. filled the room, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of empowerment and motivation.
The lyrics resonated deep within me, reminding me that I had the power to build a mountain from a mere hill. It gave me the courage to pursue my dreams relentlessly and never give up, no matter how steep the slope seemed.
Even during times when I faced setbacks and obstacles, “Gonna Build a Mountain” served as a source of inspiration. It reminded me that I had the ability to turn difficult situations around, and that heaven could be waiting on the other side if I approached life with determination and a positive mindset.
The song represents the indomitable human spirit and the potential that lies within each of us. It urges us to dream big, work hard, and never lose sight of our aspirations. Through the soaring lyrics and passionate performance by Sammy Davis Jr., “Gonna Build a Mountain” continues to inspire and uplift listeners.
In conclusion, “Gonna Build a Mountain” by Sammy Davis Jr. is a song that goes beyond its catchy melody and carries a profound message of ambition, resilience, and the pursuit of dreams. Its lyrics remind us of our own potential and the power we possess to overcome obstacles and achieve greatness. As I listen to this song, it serves as a constant reminder to never stop dreaming and building mountains of our own, no matter how challenging the journey may be.
