“Gold” by Spandau Ballet is a celebration of inner strength, resilience, and the belief in oneself. Everyone has an inner “gold,” an unbreakable spirit that shines brightly. The lyrics touch on past experiences, challenges faced, and the unwavering belief in one’s value. It’s a song about standing tall and proud, regardless of life’s obstacles. At its heart, “Gold” is an anthem of empowerment and self-belief.
Ever wondered what makes you truly shine? Join us in uncovering the shimmering essence of Spandau Ballet’s “Gold.”
“Gold” Lyrics Meaning
The opening lines of the song set the stage for reflection. An acknowledgment of time passed, evident in the worn chairs and fading memories. This theme of transience is further emphasized by “These are my salad days, Slowly being eaten away.” Salad days often refer to a time of youthful inexperience and idealism, suggesting a look back on younger days.
But this isn’t a song of regret. It’s a tribute to enduring strength and self-worth. The lines, “Oh, but I’m proud of you, but I’m proud of you” convey affirmation and support. This sentiment of pride and appreciation continues with “Nothing left to make me feel small, Luck has left me standing so tall.”
The chorus, which is the heart of the song, is a powerful affirmation of self-belief. The phrase “Always believe in your soul” is a directive, a reminder that within each person lies an innate strength, a golden core of resilience. When the song declares “You’re indestructible,” it’s both a statement of fact and a challenge: recognize your worth and stand tall in the face of adversity.
Reflecting on past partnerships and ventures, the song notes the fleeting nature of time and alliances with “After the rush has gone, Remember we were partners in crime.” Despite life’s ebbs and flows, one’s intrinsic value remains unchanged.
And while the shimmering synths and infectious chorus of “Gold” epitomize the glitz of the 80s, the song’s message transcends the era. Gary Kemp was in a reflective mode, considering the journey, not just for the band, but for anyone navigating the challenges of life. The line “I’m glad that you’re bound to return” suggests cycles of life, where things come and go, but the core remains untouched and valuable.
The Story Behind “Gold”
“Gold” was one of Spandau Ballet’s biggest hits, released in 1983. During this period, the band was enjoying significant success, with hits that became synonymous with the 80s sound. Gary Kemp, the band’s primary songwriter, felt reflected and empowered when he penned this track.
Gary’s writing has often leaned towards exploring emotions, relationships, and the human experience. With “Gold,” he captured the zeitgeist of the 80s: a time of boldness, ambition, and a certain brash confidence. The decade was marked by significant changes, with the world transitioning from the tumultuous 70s into an era of glitz, glamour, and self-expression.
“Gold” can be seen as a reflection of this era, but it also goes beyond the superficial. At its core, the song touches on timeless themes of self-belief, resilience, and the enduring human spirit. The golden motif is not just about material wealth or external validation but about recognizing one’s intrinsic value and worth.
What stands out the most in “Gold” is its universal message of resilience. It’s a call to action for listeners to recognize their worth, to stand tall against challenges, and to always believe in their “soul”. Being “indestructible” is not about invincibility but about the human spirit’s capacity to heal, grow, and shine, even when faced with adversity.
As for Spandau Ballet, “Gold” remains one of their enduring legacies. It’s a track that not only defines a decade but also serves as a testament to the band’s belief in their music and in each other. Through the ups and downs of their career, through the changing landscapes of music, and through the tests of time, like the message of the song itself, Spandau Ballet has shown that they too are, in essence, gold.