About the song
Few songs in Donna Summer’s rich catalog stand out quite like “State of Independence.” Released in 1982 as part of her album Donna Summer, this track is a powerful, genre-defying piece that blends elements of pop, gospel, electronic, and world music. While Summer is best known as the undisputed Queen of Disco, this song showcased a different side of her artistry, proving her ability to transcend musical boundaries.
Originally written by Jon Anderson and Vangelis in 1981, the song was first recorded by Anderson for his album Animation. However, it was Donna Summer’s 1982 version, produced by the legendary Quincy Jones, that brought it into the mainstream and gave it an enduring legacy.
Release and Album Context
“State of Independence” was released as the second single from Summer’s self-titled album, Donna Summer, on October 22, 1982. This album was particularly significant as it marked her collaboration with Quincy Jones, who had recently worked on Michael Jackson’s Thriller. His production style infused the record with a refined sound that balanced pop, R&B, and electronic elements, helping Summer evolve beyond the disco era while still staying true to her soulful roots.
Despite not being a major hit upon release (it peaked at No. 41 on the Billboard Hot 100), the song gained recognition over time and has become a cult classic, thanks in part to its unique composition, uplifting message, and the star-studded choir featured on the recording.
Meaning and Message
At its core, “State of Independence” is a song of spiritual awakening, freedom, and unity. The lyrics are poetic and almost mystical, evoking a vision of a better world—one where people are connected and free from oppression. Lines like:
“Be the sound of higher love, send your heart to the world…”
carry a deep sense of optimism and empowerment, making the song feel like an anthem for global harmony.
Musically, the song’s steady, hypnotic rhythm, layered vocals, and ethereal synthesizers give it a meditative, almost trance-like quality. The use of chant-like backing vocals and African-influenced percussion further enhance its spiritual and worldly feel.
Cultural Impact and Influence
One of the most remarkable aspects of “State of Independence” is the choir of legendary artists that Quincy Jones assembled for the recording. This “who’s who” of the music industry included:
- Michael Jackson
- Lionel Richie
- Dionne Warwick
- Stevie Wonder
- James Ingram
- Brenda Russell
- Kenny Loggins
This supergroup-style vocal arrangement was groundbreaking and would later inspire Jones’ concept for the iconic “We Are the World” in 1985.
Additionally, “State of Independence” paved the way for electronic and world music influences in mainstream pop. It showcased how synthesizers, gospel harmonies, and African rhythms could blend seamlessly, influencing later artists who sought to merge different musical traditions.
Legacy and Enduring Popularity
Though it was not a massive chart success, “State of Independence” remains one of Donna Summer’s most beloved and influential songs. Over the years, it has been covered and reinterpreted by numerous artists, including a 1996 dance version by Moodswings featuring Chrissie Hynde, which became a hit in its own right.
More than just a song, “State of Independence” represents a vision of unity and hope, themes that remain as relevant today as they were in 1982. With its rich production, soul-stirring lyrics, and legendary contributors, it stands as a testament to Summer’s artistic depth and continues to inspire new generations of musicians and listeners alike.
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Lyrics
State of life, may I live, may I loveComing out the sky, I name me a nameComing out silver word for what it isIt is very nature of the sound, the gameShablamidi, shablamidaShablamidi, shablamidaShablamidi, shablamidaSiamese, IndoneseTo Tibet treat the lifeAs a game, if you please, heyComing up Caribee such a freedomDerives from a meditative stateMovin’ on, believe that’s it, call it magicThird world, it is, I only guessed itShablamidi, shablamidaShablamidi, shablamidaShablamidi, shablamidaShablimidi, shablamidaShablimidi, shablamidaShablimidi, shablamidaShot to the soul the flame of OroladianThe essence of the wordThe state of independenceSounds like a signal from youBring me to meet your soundAnd I will bring you to my heartLove, like a signal you callTouching my body, my soulBring to me, you to meet me hereHome, be the temple of your heartHome, be the body of your loveJust like holy water to my lipsHey, heyYes, I do know how I surviveYes, I do know why I’m aliveTo love and be with youDay by day by day by dayTime, time again, it is saidWe will hear, we will seeSee it all in His wisdom hearHis truth will abound the landThis truth will abound the landThis state of independence shall beThis state of independence shall beSay, yeah-e-yay, yeah-e-yoYeah-e-yay, yeah-e-yoBe the sound of higher love todayYeah-e-yeah (hey, hey)Time, time again, it is saidWe will hear, we will seeSee it all in His wisdom hearHis truth will abound the landThis truth will abound the landThis state of independence shall beThis state of independence shall beThis state of independence shall beThis state of independence shall beThis state of independence shall be