Cher – Strong Enough

About the song

Released in 1971 on his pivotal album Hunky Dory, “Changes” is one of David Bowie’s most enduring, recognizable, and self-referential songs. Written by Bowie, it serves as a personal manifesto about constant evolution, artistic reinvention, and the relentless march of time. Though it didn’t become a massive chart hit upon its initial release, its timeless message and catchy piano riff quickly cemented its status as a signature Bowie track and a beloved classic. It has been widely adopted as an anthem for adaptability and the courage to embrace the unknown.

The sound and style: “Changes” is a vibrant and theatrical art-pop/glam-rock song with strong influences from cabaret and musical theatre. It’s characterized by its upbeat piano melody, dynamic shifts, and Bowie’s distinctive, chameleon-like vocal delivery. The sound is energetic, playful, and slightly grand, creating an atmosphere that is both whimsical and deeply philosophical. It showcases Bowie’s early genius for crafting catchy pop songs with intellectual depth.

Musical features:

• David Bowie’s Expressive Vocals: Bowie’s vocal performance is captivating, shifting from a clear, almost conversational tone to a more dramatic, belted delivery in the chorus. He imbues the lyrics with both an earnest sincerity and a knowing theatricality, showcasing his early vocal range and unique phrasing.
• Rick Wakeman’s Piano: The song is driven by a prominent, jaunty, and incredibly catchy piano riff played by Rick Wakeman. This piano part is central to the song’s energy and immediate recognizability.
• Saxophone and Flute: Bowie himself plays the saxophone (and possibly flute), adding a sophisticated, almost jazzy flair that is distinctive and complements the piano.
• Dynamic Buildup: The song builds effectively from the verses to the more anthemic chorus, creating a sense of escalating emotional and musical energy.
• Lively Rhythm Section: Mick Ronson’s bass and Woody Woodmansey’s drums provide a steady, swinging rhythm that propels the song forward with an infectious energy.
• Multi-layered Production: The production, typical of Hunky Dory, is rich and layered, allowing various instrumental and vocal elements to shine through clearly.

It’s whimsical, theatrical, and philosophically introspective, a catchy anthem of self-reinvention.

Lyrical themes and atmosphere:

“Ch-ch-ch-changes / Just gonna have to be a different man / Time may change me / But I can’t trace time”

The lyrics are a direct address to the concept of change itself. Bowie sings about the inevitability of change, both personally and culturally, and his own willingness (even eagerness) to embrace it. He touches on the generational divide (“Turn and face the strange / Ch-ch-changes / Don’t want to be a richer man / Just want to be a richer soul”), and the fluid nature of identity (“I’m a mama-papa coming for you”). The atmosphere is one of playful defiance, confident adaptation, and a deep understanding that life is a constant state of flux. It’s both a personal declaration and a commentary on the rapid societal shifts of the time.

Themes:

• Transformation and Reinvention: The central theme of constant personal and artistic evolution.
• Inescapability of Change: Acknowledging that change is an inherent part of life and time.
• Generational Divide: Commenting on the tension and differences between older and younger generations.
• Identity Fluidity: Exploring the idea that one’s self is not fixed but continuously developing.
• Courage to Adapt: The bravery required to embrace the unknown and not cling to the past.
• Artistic Credo: Serving as a mission statement for Bowie’s own career path.

Unlike many songs that lament change, “Changes” celebrates it with a sense of excitement and inevitability.

Legacy and impact:

• Signature Song: Became one of Bowie’s most enduring and recognizable songs, often serving as an introduction to his vast catalog.
• Anthem for Adaptability: Its message of embracing change has resonated globally, making it a popular choice for commercials, films, and moments of transition.
• Early Glam Rock / Art Pop: A foundational track in the development of both glam rock and intelligent art-pop.
• Prophetic Self-Reflection: Its lyrics eerily foreshadowed Bowie’s own decades-long career of constant reinvention and musical shifts.
• Critical Acclaim: Widely praised for its songwriting, arrangement, and thematic depth.
• Live Staple: A frequent and beloved inclusion in Bowie’s live performances throughout his career.

“Changes” is more than just a song; it’s a profound artistic statement that encapsulates the very essence of David Bowie’s genius and vision.

Final thoughts: “Changes” is a brilliant, joyful, and surprisingly profound song that captures David Bowie at a crucial point in his career. The instantly recognizable piano riff and Bowie’s wonderfully theatrical vocal delivery make it irresistible. Beyond its catchiness, the song’s lyrical exploration of constant reinvention and the inevitability of change is not only deeply personal but also remarkably prescient, setting the stage for his own legendary career. It’s a timeless anthem for anyone facing a transition, a reminder that the only constant in life is change, and sometimes, that’s simply “all we are.”

Video

Lyrics

“Strong Enough”

I don’t need your sympathy
There’s nothing you can say or do for me
And I don’t want a miracle
You’ll never change for no one
And I hear your reasons why
Where did you sleep last night?
And was she worth it? Was she worth it?

‘Cause I’m strong enough to live without you
Strong enough and I quit crying
Long enough, now I’m strong enough
To know you gotta go
There’s no more to say
So save your breath and walk away
No matter what I hear you say
I’m strong enough to know you gotta go

So you feel misunderstood
Baby, have I got news for you
On being used, I could write the book
But you don’t wanna hear about it
‘Cause I’ve been losing sleep
And you’ve been going cheap
She ain’t worth half of me, it’s true
Now I’m telling you, that

I’m strong enough to live without you
Strong enough and I quit crying
Long enough, now I’m strong enough
To know you gotta go

Come hell or waters high
You’ll never see me cry
This is our last goodbye, it’s true
I’m telling you, now

I’m strong enough to live without you
Strong enough and I quit crying
Long enough, now I’m strong enough
To know you gotta go
There’s no more to say
So save your breath and walk away
No matter what I hear you say
I’m strong enough to know you gotta go

Now I’m strong enough to live without you
Strong enough and I quit crying
Long enough, now I’m strong enough
To know you gotta go
There’s no more to say
So save your breath and walk away
No matter what I hear you say
I’m strong enough to know you gotta go