Introduction:
“Underdog” is a song by American singer-songwriter Alicia Keys, released on January 9, 2020. The song is an inspiring anthem that celebrates the resilience of the human spirit, especially that of the underdogs. The lyrics speak to the challenges and struggles faced by people who are often overlooked or underestimated by society, encouraging them to keep on pushing, chasing their dreams, and rising up against all odds.
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Produced By | Johnny McDaid & Alicia Keys |
| Written By | Alicia Keys, Jonny Coffer, Johnny McDaid, Foy Vance, Ed Sheeran & Amy Wadge |
| Mixed At | Larrabee Sound Studios |
| Background Vocals | Alicia Keys, Ed Sheeran & Johnny McDaid |
| Manny Marroquin & Brendan Morawski | |
| Assistant Engineer | Scott Desmarais, Jeremie Inhaber, Brendan Morawski & Will Reynolds |
| Mastering Engineer | Dave Kutch |
| Label | RCA Records & Sony Music Entertainment |
| Copyright © | RCA Records & Sony Music Entertainment |
| Phonographic Copyright ℗ | |
| Release Date | January 9, 2020 |
Underdog Lyrics
[Intro]
Ooh, ooh, ooh
Ooh, ooh, ooh
[Verse 1]
She was walking in the street, looked up and noticed
He was nameless, he was homeless
She asked him his name and told him what hers was
He gave her a story ’bout life
With a glint in his eye and a corner of a smile
One conversation, a simple moment
The things that change us if we notice
When we look up sometimes
[Pre-Chorus]
They said I would never make it
But I was built to break the mold
The only dream that I’ve been chasing is my own
[Chorus]
So I sing a song for the hustlers trading at the bus stop
Single mothers waiting on a check to come
Young teachers, student doctors
Sons on the front line knowing they don’t get to run
This goes out to the underdog
Keep on keeping at what you love
You’ll find that someday soon enough
You will rise up, rise up, yeah
[Post-Chorus]
Ooh, ooh, ooh
Ooh, ooh, ooh
The chorus is a call to all the underdogs, encouraging them to keep on fighting for what they love. The song mentions several groups of people, including hustlers trading at the bus stop, single mothers waiting for their checks, and sons on the front line who know they don’t get to run. It acknowledges the struggles and sacrifices that these groups make every day and reminds them that they too will rise up someday.
[Verse 2]
She’s riding in a taxi back to the kitchen
Talking to the driver ’bout his wife and his children
On the run from a country where they put you in prison
For being a woman and speaking your mind
She looked in his eyes in the mirror and he smiled
One conversation, a single moment
The things that change us if we notice
When we look up sometimes
The second verse tells the story of a female immigrant who has fled her country due to persecution. She strikes up a conversation with a taxi driver who tells her about his family. Once again, the conversation is transformative, highlighting the shared humanity of all people, regardless of their background or station in life.
[Pre-Chorus]
They said I would never make it
But I was built to break the mold
The only dream that I’ve been chasing is my own
The pre-chorus of the song touches on the challenges that many people face when pursuing their dreams. It speaks to the naysayers and doubters who may tell them they will never make it, but the singer is determined to break the mold and chase her own dreams.
[Chorus]
So I sing a song for the hustlers trading at the bus stop
Single mothers waiting on a check to come
Young teachers, student doctors
Sons on the front line knowing they don’t get to run
This goes out to the underdog
Keep on keeping at what you love
You’ll find that someday soon enough
You will rise up, rise up, yeah
[Post-Chorus]
Ooh, ooh, ooh
Ooh, ooh, ooh
The post-chorus is a continuation of the chorus, repeating the “Ooh, ooh, ooh” refrain, adding a touch of emotional intensity to the song.
[Bridge]
Everybody rise up
You gonna rise up, ayy
The bridge of the song is an uplifting and empowering call to action, encouraging everyone to rise up and be their best selves.
[Chorus]
So I sing a song for the hustlers trading at the bus stop
Single mothers waiting on a check to come (Say you’re gonna make it)
Young teachers, student doctors (Yeah)
Sons on the front line knowing they don’t get to run
This goes out to the underdog
Keep on keeping at what you love
You’ll find that someday soon enough
You will rise up, rise up, yeah
[Post-Chorus]
Ooh, ooh, ooh
Ooh, ooh, ooh
Ooh, ooh, ooh
Ooh, ooh, ooh
Lyrics Message:
The song’s lyrics are simple yet powerful, highlighting the importance of human connection, hope, and perseverance. The first verse tells the story of a chance encounter between two strangers, one of whom is homeless, and the other a successful person who stops to ask for their name. The conversation that ensues changes both of them, highlighting the transformative power of empathy and kindness.
FAQ:
What is the meaning of the song “Underdog”?
The song celebrates the resilience of the human spirit, especially that of the underdogs. It highlights the transformative power of human connection and empathy and encourages people to keep on pushing and rising up against all odds.
What inspired Alicia Keys to write “Underdog”?
Alicia Keys was inspired to write “Underdog” after observing the resilience and determination of the people around her, especially those who were often overlooked or underestimated.
Who are the “underdogs” mentioned in the song?
The song mentions several groups of people, including hustlers trading at the bus stop, single mothers waiting for their checks, and sons on the front line who know they don’t get to run.
What is the message of the song?
The song’s message is one of hope and perseverance. It encourages people to keep on fighting for what they love, no matter what obstacles they may face.
What is the significance of the “Ooh, ooh, ooh” refrain in the song?
The “Ooh, ooh, ooh” refrain adds a touch of emotional intensity to the song, emphasizing the importance of the message being conveyed.
Conclusion:
“Underdog” is an inspiring anthem that celebrates the resilience of the human spirit. The song’s lyrics are simple yet powerful, highlighting the importance of human connection, hope, and perseverance. It encourages people to keep on fighting for what they love, no matter what obstacles they may face. Through its uplifting and empowering message, “Underdog” is a reminder that anyone can rise up and be their best selves, no matter where they come from or
