The Meaning Behind The Song: Midnight Blue by Lou Gramm
Lou Gramm’s “Midnight Blue” is an uplifting tune that speaks directly to the heart. Written by Gramm and Bruce Turgon, the song was released in 1987 and has since become one of Gramm’s signature tracks. It managed to peak at number 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, solidifying its place in pop culture history.
But what makes “Midnight Blue” such a classic rock tune? What inspired Gramm to create it? And what is the real meaning behind the song?
The Inspiration Behind “Midnight Blue”
In an interview with Songfacts, Lou Gramm revealed that “Midnight Blue” was inspired by numerous events in his life. He explained that he was going through a tough time with his band Foreigner, and he was looking to branch out and express himself independently. He also divulged that he met an Indian guru who shared some inspirational teachings with him.
Gramm’s struggles with Foreigner are well documented. The band’s management was trying to steer them towards a more pop-oriented sound, which didn’t sit well with Gramm. So, he decided to write his solo album and “Midnight Blue” was one of the standout tracks.
The Lyrics and Music
The music of “Midnight Blue” is a testament to Gramm’s songwriting prowess. The song opens with a simple guitar riff that gradually builds up to a soaring chorus. The instruments are layered perfectly, and the melody is infectious and uplifting.
The lyrics, on the other hand, are poetic, and they paint a vivid picture of love and hope. Here’s a closer look at some of the most significant lines:
– “Whatever it takes, I’ll give it my all” – This line is a testament to the narrator’s devotion to his lover. He promises to do everything in his power to make their relationship work.
– “Only when I’m dancing can I feel this free” – This phrase speaks to the transformative power of music. The narrator feels his most liberated self on the dancefloor, and he wants to dance with his lover forever.
– “You’re the only one who can make me feel right” – This line highlights the importance of a healthy, loving relationship. When the world gets tough, having someone to lean on can make all the difference.
The Actual Meaning Behind “Midnight Blue”
On the surface, “Midnight Blue” is a song about falling in love and experiencing the transcendent power of dance. But on a deeper level, the song is about the struggle for creative freedom and artistic expression.
Gramm had been chomping at the bit to break free from Foreigner’s management for years, and “Midnight Blue” was his ticket to do that. The song was his chance to prove that he could be a successful solo artist and that he was capable of writing songs that were both emotionally honest and commercially viable.
The line “I had to learn how to fight for myself” speaks directly to Gramm’s struggles with Foreigner. He had to learn how to fight for his creativity and his vision, and “Midnight Blue” was the result of that fight. The song is a testament to the power of artistic integrity and the importance of staying true to oneself, no matter the cost.
The Legacy of “Midnight Blue”
“Midnight Blue” has gone on to become a classic rock tune, beloved by millions of fans around the world. It’s been covered by countless artists, including Cher and Deborah Harry, and it’s been sampled in songs by Talib Kweli and Kid Cudi.
In an interview with Forbes, Gramm said that he was grateful for the song’s continued success. He described it as a “gift” that keeps on giving, and he’s proud that it’s become a part of pop culture history.
In Conclusion
“Midnight Blue” is more than just a catchy rock tune. It’s a song about fighting for one’s artistic vision and staying true to oneself, no matter the cost. At its core, the song is about the transformative power of music and the importance of love and connection in a chaotic world.
Gramm’s legacy goes beyond “Midnight Blue,” of course. As the voice of Foreigner, he became one of the most recognizable vocalists in the genre, and his contributions to the band’s success cannot be overstated. But “Midnight Blue” remains a shining example of Gramm’s creativity and songwriting prowess, and it will continue to inspire generations of music fans for years to come.
