A Comparative Analysis of 'Eye of the Tiger' vs 'Roar': Overcoming Adversity Through Song

When it comes to inspirational and motivational music, two songs stand out for their powerful messages of overcoming adversity—'Eye of the Tiger' by Survivor and 'Roar' by Katy Perry. Many argue that 'Roar' should be the choice, but does it truly surpass 'Eye of the Tiger'? Let's delve into the nuances of both songs to find out.

The Power of 'Eye of the Tiger'

Released in 1982, 'Eye of the Tiger' was a hit single popularized by the film Rocky III. Composed by Rocky Mountain and written by Rocky Cordell, the song encapsulates the relentless drive and determination that boxing champion and actor, Sylvester Stallone, portrayed throughout the film. The song's intense rhythm, coupled with its assertive and empowering lyrics, has made it an iconic anthem for overcoming obstacles.

The opening line, 'Am I the man people say I am?,' immediately sets the tone for a song that is about self-doubt and finding the strength within oneself to overcome it. Subsequent lines like, 'I 'm gonna do it with all I am / I can face any challenge in my way,' reinforce the idea of sheer determination and unyielding perseverance. This theme is further emphasized in the chorus: 'Get ready, get ready, baby / For the opening shot / It's time to face the music and get ready to roar,' which suggests confrontation and a willingness to fight for one's goals.

The Relevance of 'Roar'

'Roar' was released in 2013 by Australian singer Katy Perry and was a massive hit both commercially and critically. The song, like 'Eye of the Tiger,' is about self-doubt and addressing it with confidence and grit. However, while 'Eye of the Tiger' takes a more traditional approach to the theme, 'Roar' introduces a contemporary twist.

From the first lines, 'When the night had come and the city was asleep, just when the world was out I woke / And the grey sky was weeping for the crying in my heart, I heard the lion in my heart,' the song explicitly addresses feelings of turmoil and depression. The metaphor of a lion symbolizes bravery and empowerment, embodying the natural instinct to fight back against one's inner demons. Lines like, 'It's all in your head what you're scared to admit,' highlight the importance of recognizing self-doubt for what it is and taking control of one's life.

Music Therapy and Empowerment

Both songs have becoming symbols of empowerment and have been used in various settings as a form of music therapy. 'Eye of the Tiger' has been utilized in gym workouts, boxing practices, and motivational speeches to instill a sense of determination and resilience. In contrast, 'Roar' has found its place in therapy sessions for individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, and loss of confidence. The contemporary sounds and lyrics of 'Roar' make it more relatable to a younger audience, broadening its reach and impact.

Conclusion: A Comparative Overview

While 'Eye of the Tiger' and 'Roar' both touch on the theme of overcoming adversity, the latter may be more directly relatable to a modern audience due to its contemporary depiction of battling internal struggles. However, the enduring appeal of 'Eye of the Tiger' lies in its timelessness, its iconic cinematic experience, and its clear, straightforward message. Both songs, in their own way, serve as powerful reminders that it is our determination and inner strength that can help us overcome any obstacle in life.

Ultimately, the choice between 'Eye of the Tiger' and 'Roar' is a matter of personal taste and preference. Both songs have significant cultural and emotional value, and each can offer a powerful message of empowerment and resilience to different listeners. Regardless of which one is considered 'better,' they both stand as testaments to the role that music can play in our journeys towards self-improvement and self-empowerment.