Flashdance: What A Feeling - The Iconic Song & Movie

"Flashdance... What a Feeling" isn't just a song; it's a time capsule, a feeling, a cultural phenomenon! This track, inextricably linked to the 1983 film Flashdance, captured the hearts of millions and continues to inspire generations. But what makes this song so special? And how did it become such an integral part of the movie's identity? Let's dive into the magic behind "Flashdance... What a Feeling". This song is an anthem of perseverance, dream chasing, and the sheer exhilaration of achieving your goals. It perfectly encapsulates the spirit of Alex Owens, the film's protagonist, as she navigates the challenges of being a welder by day and an exotic dancer by night, all while pursuing her dream of becoming a professional ballerina. The blend of electronic sounds with Irene Cara's powerful vocals created a soundscape that was both cutting-edge and deeply emotional for its time.

The Genesis of a Hit: Crafting "What a Feeling"

The story of "What a Feeling" is as fascinating as the song itself. The music was composed by Giorgio Moroder, a pioneer of electronic disco, and the lyrics were penned by Keith Forsey and Irene Cara. Moroder's innovative use of synthesizers and drum machines gave the song its distinctive 80s sound, while Forsey and Cara crafted lyrics that spoke directly to the film's themes of ambition and self-belief. Irene Cara's involvement went beyond just singing; she co-wrote the lyrics, bringing her own understanding of the character and the story to the song. This collaborative effort resulted in a track that felt authentic and deeply connected to the Flashdance narrative. The song's structure is also noteworthy. It builds gradually, starting with a relatively subdued intro before exploding into a chorus that is both uplifting and instantly memorable. This dynamic arrangement, combined with Cara's soaring vocals, creates a sense of emotional release that resonates with listeners. The lyrics themselves are a testament to the power of positive thinking and the importance of never giving up on your dreams. Lines like "Take your passion, and make it happen" and "What a feeling, being's believin'" became mantras for a generation.

Irene Cara: The Voice Behind the Feeling

Irene Cara's performance of "What a Feeling" is nothing short of iconic. Her powerful voice, combined with her emotive delivery, brought the song to life and made it an instant classic. Cara was already a successful singer and actress before Flashdance, having starred in the television miniseries Roots and the musical Sparkle. However, "What a Feeling" catapulted her to a new level of fame. Her vocal performance is characterized by its range, control, and sheer passion. She effortlessly navigates the song's demanding melody, hitting every note with precision and conveying the raw emotion of the lyrics. But it's not just her technical skill that makes her performance so compelling. Cara also brings a sense of vulnerability and authenticity to the song, making it relatable to listeners from all walks of life. Her ability to connect with the audience on an emotional level is what truly sets her apart. Beyond her vocal performance, Irene Cara also played a crucial role in shaping the song's lyrics and overall message. As a co-writer, she brought her own insights and experiences to the project, ensuring that the song accurately reflected the spirit of Flashdance. Her contribution to "What a Feeling" extends far beyond just singing; she was an integral part of the song's creation and success. Tragically, Irene Cara passed away in 2022, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most talented and influential performers of her generation. Her voice will forever be associated with "What a Feeling" and the Flashdance phenomenon.

Flashdance: A Movie That Defined a Generation

Flashdance, directed by Adrian Lyne, was a box office smash in 1983, grossing over $200 million worldwide. The film's story, about a young woman juggling multiple jobs while pursuing her ballet dreams, resonated with audiences who were inspired by its message of hope and determination. The movie's visual style, characterized by its energetic dance sequences and gritty industrial settings, was also highly influential. The film's soundtrack, featuring "What a Feeling" as its centerpiece, was equally successful, selling millions of copies and winning numerous awards. Flashdance was more than just a movie; it was a cultural phenomenon that defined a generation. Its themes of ambition, self-belief, and the pursuit of dreams continue to resonate with audiences today. The film's impact can be seen in its influence on fashion, music, and popular culture. From the iconic off-the-shoulder sweatshirt to the film's energetic dance sequences, Flashdance left an indelible mark on the 1980s. The film's success also helped to launch the careers of several of its stars, including Jennifer Beals, who played the lead role of Alex Owens. While the film has been criticized for its simplistic plot and reliance on visual style over substance, its cultural impact is undeniable. Flashdance captured the spirit of its time and continues to be remembered as one of the most iconic films of the 1980s. The movie's blend of music, dance, and romance made it a crowd-pleaser, while its message of hope and determination inspired audiences to pursue their own dreams. It's a film that celebrated individuality and the power of self-belief, themes that remain relevant and important today.

The Enduring Legacy of "What a Feeling"

Decades after its release, "What a Feeling" continues to be a beloved and iconic song. It's been featured in countless movies, television shows, and commercials, and it's still a staple on radio stations around the world. The song's enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless quality and its ability to connect with listeners of all ages. "What a Feeling" has become more than just a song; it's a symbol of hope, inspiration, and the power of dreams. Its message of perseverance and self-belief continues to resonate with people who are striving to achieve their goals. The song's impact on popular culture is undeniable. It helped to popularize electronic music and dance-pop, and it influenced countless artists who followed in its wake. "What a Feeling" also helped to break down barriers for female artists, paving the way for future generations of women in music. The song's legacy extends beyond the realm of music. It's become a part of our collective memory, a soundtrack to our lives. Whenever we hear those opening chords, we're transported back to the 1980s, to a time of big hair, neon colors, and boundless optimism. "What a Feeling" is a reminder that anything is possible if we believe in ourselves and never give up on our dreams. The song's message of empowerment and self-belief is as relevant today as it was when it was first released. It's a song that inspires us to take risks, to pursue our passions, and to never let anyone tell us that we can't achieve our goals.

Covers and Interpretations: "What a Feeling" Across Genres

The success of "What a Feeling" has led to numerous covers and interpretations across various genres. From pop to rock to electronic, artists have put their own spin on the iconic song, demonstrating its versatility and enduring appeal. These covers often highlight different aspects of the song, showcasing its melodic strength, lyrical depth, or emotional resonance. Some covers stay true to the original's 80s synth-pop sound, while others reimagine the song with modern arrangements and production techniques. Each interpretation brings a unique perspective to "What a Feeling," revealing new layers of meaning and emotion. The diversity of these covers is a testament to the song's universal appeal and its ability to transcend genre boundaries. Whether it's a faithful rendition or a radical reimagining, each cover pays homage to the original while offering something new and unique. These interpretations keep "What a Feeling" fresh and relevant for new generations of listeners, ensuring that its legacy continues to thrive. The act of covering a song is often seen as a form of tribute, a way for artists to express their admiration and appreciation for the original. By covering "What a Feeling," artists acknowledge its importance in music history and its enduring impact on popular culture. These covers also serve as a reminder of the song's timeless quality and its ability to connect with audiences across different eras and backgrounds. The variety of covers and interpretations of "What a Feeling" speaks to its enduring power and its ability to inspire creativity and innovation. It's a song that continues to be discovered and reinterpreted, ensuring that its legacy will continue to grow for years to come.

In conclusion, "Flashdance... What a Feeling" is more than just a song; it's a cultural touchstone that continues to inspire and uplift. From its innovative production to Irene Cara's unforgettable vocals, every element of the song contributed to its success. And its message of hope, perseverance, and self-belief remains as relevant today as it was in 1983. So, next time you hear "What a Feeling," take a moment to appreciate the magic behind this iconic track and let its message inspire you to chase your own dreams. Guys, remember that feeling!