About the song
Released in 1973 as part of the band’s critically acclaimed album “Chicago VI,” “Feelin’ Stronger Every Day” is a song that perfectly encapsulates Chicago’s signature fusion of rock, jazz, and brass instrumentation. With its uplifting energy and dynamic arrangement, the track remains one of the band’s most beloved songs, showcasing their ability to blend catchy melodies with powerful lyrics.
Background and Release
“Feelin’ Stronger Every Day” was written by Peter Cetera and James Pankow, two of the core members of Chicago. Released as a single on June 4, 1973, the song quickly gained traction, peaking at No. 10 on the Billboard Hot 100. It became one of the band’s standout hits of the 1970s, a period in which they were consistently dominating the charts with their brass-driven rock sound.
The song was included in “Chicago VI,” the band’s fifth studio album (since their first album was a double LP). The album marked a shift in the band’s sound, moving towards a more commercially friendly, radio-friendly rock style while still maintaining their intricate musical arrangements. This shift was met with great success, as “Chicago VI” went on to become a No. 1 album in the U.S. and cemented the band’s reputation as one of the most innovative rock acts of the decade.
Meaning and Musical Style
Lyrically, “Feelin’ Stronger Every Day” is a song about overcoming struggles and finding personal strength after heartbreak or difficulty. While the lyrics could be interpreted as describing the end of a romantic relationship, they also resonate as a broader anthem of resilience, growth, and self-empowerment.
The song begins with a slower, more introspective mood, with Peter Cetera’s distinctive tenor voice leading the way. However, as the track progresses, the tempo builds, and the song transforms into an explosive, uplifting piece, driven by a pulsating rhythm and the band’s signature horn section. This shift in intensity mirrors the song’s theme of moving forward and gaining strength with time.
Musically, Chicago’s blend of rock and jazz elements is in full force here. James Pankow’s brass arrangements, Terry Kath’s rhythmic guitar work, and Danny Seraphine’s energetic drumming all contribute to the song’s powerful, driving sound. The song’s climactic build-up, leading into the soaring final chorus, is particularly effective in creating a sense of triumph and optimism.
Cultural Impact and Legacy
Though Chicago had already made a name for themselves with hits like “25 or 6 to 4” and “Saturday in the Park,” “Feelin’ Stronger Every Day” solidified their ability to craft uplifting, emotionally resonant rock songs that could appeal to a wide audience.
Over the years, the song has remained a fan favorite, frequently included in Chicago’s live performances. Its message of perseverance has made it a go-to song for moments of personal victory, from sports montages to personal journeys of resilience.
Additionally, the song showcases the band’s gradual evolution from their early progressive jazz-rock sound into a more streamlined soft rock and pop-rock direction, a transition that would define their later success in the late ’70s and ’80s.
Conclusion
“Feelin’ Stronger Every Day” is more than just another hit song from Chicago—it’s an anthem of growth, positivity, and determination. Its seamless blend of rock, brass, and melodic songwriting showcases the band’s unique musical identity and ability to craft songs that remain relevant decades after their release. Whether it’s through the energetic instrumentation or the hopeful lyrics, the song continues to inspire listeners, proving that sometimes, we all need a reminder that we’re getting stronger with each passing day.
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Lyrics
I do believe in youAnd I know you believe in meOh-oh, yeah, oh-oh, yeahAnd now we realizeLove’s not all that it’s supposed to beOh-oh, yeah, oh-oh, yeahKnowing that you would have wanted it this wayI do believe I’m feeling stronger every dayI know we really triedTogether we had love insideOh-oh, yeah, oh-oh, yeahSo now the time has comeFor both of us to live on the runOh-oh, yeah, oh-oh, yeahKnowing that you would have wanted it this wayI do believe I’m feeling stronger every dayYeah, yeah, yeahYeah, yeah, yeahAfter what you’ve meant to meOoh, baby now, I can’t make it easily(Yeah, yeah, yeah)I know that we both agreeThe best thing to happen to youThe best thing to happen to meYeah, yeah, yeahFeeling stronger every dayFeeling stronger every dayFeeling stronger every day(You know I’m alright now)Feeling stronger every day(You know I’m alright now)Feeling stronger every day(You know I’m alright now)Feeling stronger every day(You know I’m alright now)Feeling stronger every day(You know I’m alright now)Feeling stronger every day(You know I’m alright now)Feeling stronger every day(You know I’m alright now)Feeling stronger every day(You know I’m alright now)Feeling stronger every day(You know I’m alright now)