Happy 69th Birthday Gloria Gaynor – “I Will Survive” Influenced a Generation

I don’t know about you, but, I always felt like Gloria Gaynor’s huge hit “I Will Survive” was the soundtrack of my life. Given everything our generation has been through, I’m sure that many women in the community feel the same way.

Even if you don’t feel this way, I am sure you can remember singing along to this song back in disco era of the 1970s. Take a second to think back to when you first, or last, heard this song. Where were you? Who were you with? What were you wearing?

Many of us knew every word of this song. We believed in its message. Through these words, Gloria Gaynor established herself as the true Disco Queen. Perhaps more importantly, she gave us one more example of a strong and passionate woman to look up to. She is a shining example of a woman taking control of her life and taking a stand for what she believes in.

I have a deep and personal connection to this type of music. I went to high school in Detroit and I am proud to say I was musically “weaned” on Motown. It was everywhere. It was a part of the soul of the place.

I often think about the amazing female singers who shaped that decade. They seemed to have lives full of glamour and adventure. At the same time, they weren’t just caricatures. They had their struggles. They were old souls. Gloria Gaynor was one of my favorites.

Today, on August 7th, Gloria is 69 years old, so, let’s all wish her a happy birthday!

Happy Birthday Gloria! Here is a special thank you for sharing your music with the world. Thank you for influencing so many lives. Thank you for reminding us that “I got all my life to live and all my love to give – I will survive!”

Here’s a recent performance to remind you of just how amazing Gloria is… as if you need reminding!

Happy 69th Birthday, Gloria! Are you a Gloria Gaynor fan? Do you have any special associations with her song “I will survive”? Do you remember listening to this song during an especially difficult time in your life? Please join the conversation.

Photo source: Gloria Gaynor Facebook page, Official website