The Meaning Behind The Song: When The Going Gets Tough The Tough Get Going by Billy Ocean
Billy Ocean’s hit song, “When The Going Gets Tough The Tough Get Going,” released in 1985, has been included in numerous movie soundtracks, making it a timeless classic. The catchy lyrics and the upbeat tempo make it a perfect song for motivating people going through tough times, inspiring them to face challenges head-on. In this article, we will explore the meaning behind the hit song, “When The Going Gets Tough The Tough Get Going” by Billy Ocean.
Table of Contents
Background of the Song
Billy Ocean was born in Trinidad and Tobago and grew up in England. He is a renowned singer-songwriter, and “When The Going Gets Tough The Tough Get Going” is considered one of his greatest hits. The song was originally written for the movie “The Jewel of the Nile,” starring Michael Douglas and Kathleen Turner. The song was included as the lead single of the movie’s soundtrack, and it went on to top the charts in the UK and the US.
The Meaning Behind the Lyrics
The lyrics of the song tell a story of perseverance, resilience, and determination to overcome obstacles. When life gets tough, the tough get going by facing the challenges head-on and not giving up. The opening lines of the song, “When the going gets tough, the tough get going” set the tone for a message of hope, strength, and courage.
The chorus serves as a reminder that even when things seem difficult, we should not lose heart, and we should keep going. “I’m gonna get myself ‘cross the river, that’s the price I’m willing to pay. I’m gonna make you stand and deliver, and give me love in the old-fashioned way.” These lines portray someone who is determined to fight for their love, no matter what it takes. It’s an inspirational message that encourages people to stay strong and never give up, even when it seems impossible.
The Song’s Popularity
“When The Going Gets Tough The Tough Get Going” was released during a time when people needed motivational songs to get through tough times. The song’s upbeat tempo, catchy tune, and lyrics resonated with the masses, making it an instant hit.
Over the years, the song has been featured in several movies, including “The Jewel of the Nile,” “The Proposal,” “The Secret Life of Walter Mitty,” and “Madagascar.” The popularity of the song has remained, with new generations discovering it through movie soundtracks, social media, and streaming platforms.
Impact on Popular Culture
The song has had a massive impact on popular culture since its release. It has been covered by various artists and even used in advertising campaigns. In 2019, Billy Ocean was awarded the Ivor Novello Award for Best Song Musically and Lyrically, highlighting the song’s continued relevance and popularity.
The Song’s Legacy
“When The Going Gets Tough The Tough Get Going” continues to be a source of inspiration and motivation for millions of people around the world. The song’s message of resilience and perseverance is timeless, and its impact on popular culture has made it a classic.
Despite being released over three decades ago, the song remains as relevant as ever, serving as a reminder that when the going gets tough, the tough get going.
FAQs
1. What inspired Billy Ocean to write “When The Going Gets Tough The Tough Get Going?”
Billy Ocean was inspired to write the song for the movie “The Jewel of the Nile.” He wanted to create a message of hope, strength, and perseverance that would resonate with people going through tough times.
2. Was the song an instant hit?
Yes, “When The Going Gets Tough The Tough Get Going” was an instant hit when it was released in 1985. It topped the charts in the UK and the US, and over three decades later, it remains a classic.
3. Why is the song so popular?
The song’s message of resilience, perseverance, and determination to overcome obstacles resonates with people going through tough times. The upbeat tempo and catchy lyrics make it a perfect song for motivating people to keep going.
4. Has the song been covered by other artists?
Yes, the song has been covered by several artists over the years, including Boyzone and Hermes House Band.
5. What impact has the song had on popular culture?
The song has had a massive impact on popular culture since its release, with its message of resilience and perseverance inspiring millions of people around the world. It has been featured in numerous movies, television shows, and advertisements.
6. What is the song’s legacy?
The song’s legacy is its timeless message of resilience and perseverance, which continues to inspire and motivate people over three decades after its release.
7. Did Billy Ocean win awards for the song?
Yes, Billy Ocean was awarded the Ivor Novello Award for Best Song Musically and Lyrically in 2019, highlighting the song’s continued relevance and popularity.
8. How has the song’s popularity evolved over the years?
Despite being released over three decades ago, the song’s popularity has remained constant. It continues to be discovered by new generations through movie soundtracks, streaming platforms, and social media.
9. What message does the song convey?
The song’s message is one of resilience, perseverance, and determination to overcome obstacles, encouraging people to stay strong and never give up.
10. What makes the song a classic?
The song’s catchy lyrics, upbeat tempo, and timeless message of resilience and perseverance make it a classic that continues to inspire and motivate people around the world.
11. What movies has the song been featured in?
The song has been featured in several movies, including “The Jewel of the Nile,” “The Proposal,” “The Secret Life of Walter Mitty,” and “Madagascar.”
12. What impact has the song had on Billy Ocean’s career?
“When The Going Gets Tough The Tough Get Going” has been one of the most successful hits of Billy Ocean’s career, further cementing his status as a renowned singer-songwriter.
