Introduction
“Break My Stride” is a classic pop song from the 80s that has had a recent resurgence in popularity thanks to social media. The song was first released in 1983 by American singer-songwriter Matthew Wilder, and it quickly became a hit. Its catchy melody, upbeat tempo, and self-affirming lyrics made it a favorite among fans.
But what is the meaning behind the song? What inspired Wilder to write it, and why has it resonated with so many people over the years?
In this article, we’ll explore the meaning behind “Break My Stride” and analyze its lyrics, music, and cultural impact.
The Inspiration Behind “Break My Stride”
Matthew Wilder wrote “Break My Stride” in the early 80s, at a time when he was trying to establish himself as a solo artist. He had already had some success as a songwriter and producer, having worked with artists like Christina Aguilera and Kelly Clarkson, but he wanted to make a name for himself as a performer.
Wilder drew inspiration for the song from his own experiences in the music industry. He had faced many obstacles and setbacks in his career, and he wanted to write a song that would inspire and motivate others who were going through tough times.
In an interview with Songfacts, Wilder said, “I was going through a lot of frustration at the time because I was trying to get my career going as an artist, and the song was a reflection of that. It was a kind of defiant song: ‘Nobody’s going to break my stride. I’m going to keep on moving forward.'”
The Lyrics of “Break My Stride”
The lyrics of “Break My Stride” are deceptively simple. The song is essentially a list of reasons why Wilder is not going to let anything or anyone stand in his way. Here’s a closer look at some of the key lyrics:
“Ain’t nothin’ gonna break my stride, nobody gonna slow me down”
This is the most famous line of the song, and it perfectly encapsulates Wilder’s attitude of determination and resilience. He refuses to let anything get in his way, and he’s confident that he can overcome any obstacle that comes his way.
“Oh no, I’ve got to keep on movin’
This line reinforces Wilder’s message of perseverance. No matter what happens, he’s not going to give up. He’s going to keep moving forward and pursuing his dreams.
“I’m running and I won’t touch ground, oh no”
This line suggests Wilder’s attitude of rapid advancement, even when it seems like he’s not making progress. He’s determined to keep going, even if he hasn’t yet achieved his goals.
“Never let another girl like you, work me over”
This line is interesting because it suggests that Wilder has been hurt or let down by someone in the past. However, he’s not going to let that experience slow him down. Instead, he’s going to learn from it and keep moving forward.
The Music of “Break My Stride”
The music of “Break My Stride” is just as catchy and upbeat as the lyrics. The song features a driving drumbeat, a funky bassline, and a lively synth melody. The combination of these elements creates a sense of energy and forward momentum that perfectly matches the song’s message of perseverance.
One of the most distinctive features of “Break My Stride” is its use of the vocoder. The song opens with Wilder’s voice modulated through the device, giving it a futuristic, almost robotic quality. This effect was popular in the 80s, and Wilder used it to create a distinctive sound that would set the song apart.
The Cultural Impact of “Break My Stride”
“Break My Stride” was a big hit when it was first released in 1983. It reached the top 10 in several countries, including the United States, Canada, and Australia. However, its popularity didn’t stop there. The song has been covered and sampled by numerous artists over the years, and it continues to be a beloved classic.
In recent years, “Break My Stride” has experienced a resurgence in popularity thanks to social media. The song has become a meme of sorts, with people using it in videos and posts online. In 2020, the song went viral on TikTok, with users creating their own dance routines and remixes.
The enduring popularity of “Break My Stride” speaks to the universal appeal of its message. Everyone faces challenges and setbacks in life, but Wilder’s song offers a message of hope and encouragement. It reminds us that we’re capable of overcoming any obstacle if we stay determined and keep moving forward.
Conclusion
Matthew Wilder’s “Break My Stride” is a classic pop song with a timeless message. Its lyrics and music perfectly capture the spirit of determination and resilience, and its enduring popularity speaks to the universal appeal of its message. Whether you’re facing obstacles in your career, relationships, or personal life, “Break My Stride” reminds us that we’re capable of overcoming anything if we stay focused, stay positive, and keep moving forward.
