“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”

Introduction

The first time I heard Labi Siffre’s “Something Inside So Strong,” I was captivated by the strength and sincerity embedded in every note and lyric. This song is not just a musical piece but a profound message about resilience and courage in the face of societal injustices.

About The Composition

  • Title: Something Inside So Strong
  • Composer: Labi Siffre
  • Release Date: January 1987
  • Album: So Strong
  • Genre: Pop, Soul

Background

“Something Inside So Strong” was written by British singer-songwriter Labi Siffre in 1984. The song was inspired by his reaction to a television documentary on apartheid in South Africa, where he witnessed the brutal treatment of black South Africans. Moved by the oppression and injustices, Siffre penned this song as a response to the systemic racism he observed. Upon its release in 1987, the song was warmly received and became one of the defining works of his career.

Musical Style

The song blends elements of pop and soul, featuring powerful and emotive vocals by Siffre. The composition employs a rich combination of instruments, including piano, guitar, and a gospel-influenced choir, creating a deeply moving musical atmosphere. The arrangement enhances the song’s message of inner strength and unyielding spirit, leaving a lasting impact on listeners.

Lyrics

The lyrics focus on themes of self-confidence and determination to overcome obstacles. “Something Inside So Strong” encourages listeners to believe in their inner strength despite facing oppression or discrimination. Lines like “The higher you build your barriers, the taller I become” vividly express an unwavering refusal to be subdued by adversity.

Performance History

Over the years, the song has been performed by numerous renowned artists and featured in significant events. It has become an anthem in human rights movements and is frequently used in charitable events and social campaigns. Notable performances include renditions by artists who have brought their unique interpretations while preserving the song’s powerful message.

Cultural Impact

“Something Inside So Strong” extends its influence beyond music into various cultural spheres. It has inspired many in their fight against injustice and discrimination. The song has been used in films, television shows, and other media as a symbol of resilience and strength, cementing its place as a cultural touchstone.

Legacy

Today, the song maintains its relevance and continues to resonate with new generations. Its enduring message about the power of the human spirit in overcoming hardship ensures that “Something Inside So Strong” remains a source of inspiration for those seeking strength in the face of life’s challenges.

Conclusion

Labi Siffre’s “Something Inside So Strong” is a profoundly meaningful and inspiring work. It reminds us of our innate strength and our ability to overcome any barriers we may face. I encourage you to take the time to listen and absorb the deep message this song conveys. Noteworthy recordings include the original by Labi Siffre and various covers by other artists, each bringing their own emotional depth to the piece.

Video

Lyrics

The higher you build your barrier
The taller I become
The farther you take my rights away
The faster I will run
You can deny me
You can decide to turn your face away
No matter ’cause there’s
Something inside so strong
I know that I can make it
Though you’re doing me wrong so wrong
You thought that my pride was gone, oh no
There’s something inside so strong
Something inside so strong
The more you refuse to hear my voice
The louder I will sing
You hide behind Walls of Jericho
Your lies will come tumbling
Deny my place and time
You squander wealth that’s mine
My light will shine
So brightly it will blind you
Because there’s
Something inside so strong
I know that I can make it
Though you’re doing me wrong so wrong
You thought that my pride was gone, oh no
There’s something inside so strong
Something inside so strong
Brothers and sisters
When they insist we’re just not good enough
Well we know better
Just look ’em in the eye and say
We’re gonna do it anyway
We’re gonna do it anyway
We’re gonna do it anyway
Something inside so strong
I know that I can make it
Though you’re doing me wrong so wrong
You thought that my pride was gone, oh no
There’s something inside so strong
There’s something inside so strong
There’s something inside so strong
Something inside so strong
I know that I can make it
Though you’re doing me wrong so wrong
You’re doing me wrong so wrong
Something inside so strong
Something inside so strong
I know that I can make it
Though you’re doing me wrong so wrong
You’re doing me wrong so wrong
Something inside so strong
Something inside so strong
I know that I can make it
Though you’re doing me wrong so wrong
You’re doing me wrong so wrong
Something inside so strong
Something inside so strong
I know that I can make it
Though you’re doing me wrong so wrong
You’re doing me wrong so wrong
Something inside so strong
Something inside so strong
I know that I can make it

You Missed

“SOME LEGENDS ALMOST WALK AWAY BEFORE THEIR STORY BEGINS.” In the late 1970s, George Strait nearly quit music altogether. He had accepted a steady job designing cattle pens in Uvalde, weary of chasing a dream that seemed to slip further away. Norma quickly noticed the change. “I didn’t want to live with him like that,” she recalled. Her encouragement gave George one last push — a promise to try for just one more year. That decision changed everything. With help from his friend Erv Woolsey, George traveled back to Nashville, only to hear again that his voice was “too country.” Rejected but not broken, he and Erv convinced MCA executives to hear the Ace In The Hole Band live in a Texas honky-tonk. This time, the spark caught. George was offered a single: a heartbroken drinking song called “Unwound.” Released in May 1981, just days before his 29th birthday, the track climbed to No. 6. George remembered hearing it on the radio while still working as a ranch foreman — shocked to recognize his own voice climbing the charts. That success led to his debut album, Strait Country, and soon after, his first No. 1 with “Fool Hearted Memory.” But Nashville wanted to mold him. They told him to lose the hat, soften the sound, lean into pop polish. George resisted. “They were trying to make me into something else, but I was too hardheaded,” he later said. By the time his fourth album was underway, he had the confidence to push back. With hits on the charts and awards in hand, George Strait claimed control of his music — and in doing so, set the course for a career that would honor tradition while rewriting history.