The Meaning Behind The Song: Hold On by Triumph

Publish date: 2024-03-26

Title: The Resilient Anthem of Triumph’s “Hold On”: A Message of Hope for Trying Times

Table of Contents

Introduction

For over four decades, the Canadian power trio Triumph has been a fixture in the rock music scene, producing hits that have stood the test of time. Among their body of work is the song “Hold On,” a resilient anthem that has carried a message of hope and perseverance for generations. Triumphant in its own right, “Hold On” inspires listeners across the globe to keep their chin up even in the darkest times.

The Story Behind the Song

“Hold On” was released in 1979 as part of Triumph’s “Just a Game” album. It was written by the band’s guitarist and vocalist, Rik Emmett, and has since become one of their most iconic songs. Emmett has revealed that the lyrics were inspired by his experience of being a self-doubting musician. He wrote “Hold On” as a reminder to himself and others to keep pushing forward despite the trials they face.

The Meaning of “Hold On”

At its core, “Hold On” is about resilience. It’s a message that encourages listeners to persevere through the highs and lows of life, to never give up when it seems like the odds are against them. The message is particularly poignant given the fact that the song was released at the end of the 1970s, a time of cultural upheaval and social change that saw many people lose their footing.

The song’s opening lines set the tone for the rest of the lyrics:

“Gone, when the morning comes,
When the night is over,
Like a lover, another day.”

These lyrics illustrate the idea that life is a series of fleeting moments, and that we must be prepared to face the changes that each new day brings. In the face of adversity, it’s important to remember that no matter how hard things may seem, the morning always comes again, and with it a fresh start.

The Lyrics

“Hold On” is a song that is rich with imagery and metaphor. The lyrics paint a picture of a person who is dealing with struggles, but who refuses to give up. Some of the most memorable lines include:

“Hold on, hold on to yourself,
For this is gonna hurt like hell.”

This line is a poignant reminder that sometimes the road to success can be a painful one. It’s not always easy to push through the struggles and the doubts, but ultimately it’s worth it to hold onto your sense of self and keep fighting for what you want.

Another line that stands out is:

“Determined to survive,
Organize your life, and think,
They’ll be times when your only friend
Is the twilight, and you.”

This line speaks to the idea that sometimes, when times are tough, we must be our own best friend. It’s important to take the time to organize your life and your thoughts, and to find a sense of peace and solace within yourself. This can be difficult, but it’s a necessary part of achieving personal growth and resilience.

The Instrumentation and Production

In addition to its powerful lyrics, “Hold On” is a masterclass in rock musicianship. The song is built around a powerful guitar riff, with a driving beat that propels the listener forward. The production is clean and crisp, with each instrument shining through in the mix.

Perhaps the most memorable element of the song is the guitar solo, which is considered by many to be one of the greatest solos in rock history. Rik Emmett’s virtuosic playing is on full display here, and the solo is a highlight of the song that adds to its overall sense of triumph and resilience.

The Legacy of “Hold On”

“Hold On” has endured for over four decades, and continues to inspire listeners across the globe. The song has been covered numerous times by other artists, and its lyrics have been used in movies and TV shows.

In an interview with the website Ultimate Classic Rock, Triumph drummer Gil Moore summed up the legacy of the song:

“‘Hold On’ is a song about endurance, moving forward and never giving up. It has become an anthem for Triumph fans and other rock enthusiasts alike.”

Conclusion

Triumph’s “Hold On” is a song that has stood the test of time, resonating with listeners for over forty years. Its message of resilience and perseverance is one that is particularly relevant in today’s world, where many people are struggling to find their footing. Through its powerful lyrics and virtuosic instrumentation, “Hold On” is a reminder to never give up, to keep pushing forward, and to always hold onto your sense of self.

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