The Meaning Behind The Song: Gravity by Sara Bareilles
Sara Bareilles is a Grammy-nominated American singer-songwriter known for her heartfelt lyrics and strong vocals. One of her most famous songs is “Gravity,” a soulful ballad that has touched the hearts of millions of listeners. Released in 2007, the song is a standout track from Bareilles’ debut album “Little Voice.” In this article, we’ll explore the meaning behind “Gravity” and why it continues to resonate with fans around the world.
The Inspiration Behind The Song
Bareilles has revealed that “Gravity” was inspired by her struggle with writer’s block. In an interview with Rolling Stone magazine, she said that she wrote the song during a period of creative frustration when she felt like she was unable to come up with anything good. She said that the song was a reflection of her feelings of helplessness and anxiety at the time.
The Lyrics
The lyrics of “Gravity” are haunting and beautiful. The song speaks to the universal experience of feeling powerless in the face of strong emotions. The opening lines capture this feeling perfectly: “Something always brings me back to you, it never takes too long. No matter what I say or do, I still feel you here till the moment I’m gone.”
The chorus of the song is equally powerful: “You hold me without touch. You keep me without chains. I never wanted anything so much than to drown in your love and not feel your rain.” These lines convey the idea that we are often drawn to people or things that are not good for us, even if we know they will only bring us pain.
The second verse of the song is particularly poignant: “Set me free, leave me be. I don’t want to fall another moment into your gravity. Here I am, and I stand so tall, just the way I’m supposed to be. But you’re on to me, and all over me.”
These lines speak to the feeling of being trapped in a toxic relationship or situation even when we know we should leave. They also acknowledge how difficult it can be to stand up for ourselves and break free from the gravitational pull of someone or something that we know is not good for us.
The Universal Appeal Of The Song
“Gravity” has become one of Bareilles’ most popular songs, and it’s easy to see why. The song speaks to the universal experience of love, loss, and the struggle to find our own voice in a world that’s often overwhelming. Bareilles’ strong vocals and emotional delivery add to the power of the lyrics, making the song a true masterpiece of modern music.
In an interview with NPR, Bareilles acknowledged that the song has taken on a life of its own since its release. She said, “It’s been a song that’s really taken root with a lot of people. I feel really honored that it’s connected with people in that way.”
Part of the reason for the song’s enduring appeal is its relatability. As Bareilles puts it, “I feel like it’s a song about surrendering to something that you really don’t want to, but kind of knowing that it’s inevitable.” Anyone who’s ever felt powerless in the face of love or loss can relate to the sentiments expressed in “Gravity.”
The Music
Along with its powerful lyrics, “Gravity” is also noteworthy for its beautiful music. The piano-driven melody is both simple and complex, evoking a sense of yearning and melancholy. The song’s dynamics ebb and flow, adding to its emotional impact.
The song’s music video capitalizes on these dynamics, featuring a single shot of Bareilles playing the piano in a darkly lit room. As the song progresses, the camera slowly zooms in on her face, capturing her intense emotional performance.
The Legacy Of The Song
Since its release in 2007, “Gravity” has become an enduring classic. It’s been covered by numerous artists, from jazz singer Jaimee Paul to actor Lea Michele. The song has also been featured in a number of films and television shows, including “Private Practice” and “So You Think You Can Dance.”
In addition to its cultural impact, “Gravity” has also been recognized by the music industry. The song earned Bareilles a nomination for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance at the 51st Grammy Awards in 2009. Though she didn’t win, the nomination cemented “Gravity’s” place in the pantheon of great American ballads.
Conclusion
“Gravity” is a true masterpiece of modern music. With its haunting melodies and powerful lyrics, the song has touched the hearts of millions of listeners around the world. Its universal themes of love, loss, and the struggle to find our own voice make it a timeless classic that will continue to resonate with fans for many years to come. Whether you’re a diehard Sara Bareilles fan or a casual music lover, “Gravity” is a song that’s sure to move you.
