#SoloSongs: “I Will Survive” and “Flowers”

#SoloSongs is our feature in which we highlight songs that show the joys and struggles of being independent.

“I Will Survive” by Gloria Gaynor and “Flowers” by Miley Cyrus are the types of songs that demand you get off your butt and dance. But both songs come with powerful messages.

Breakups are never easy, but the two songs – one from the 1970s, the other just a few years old – come with the realization that the narrators lead new lives and all kinds of possibilities are open to them.

“I Will Survive” came out in 1978 with a propulsive beat and strong lyrics to match. When her former lover comes back into her life, the narrator realizes that she was doing just fine. Her time alone made her a different person: “And you see me, somebody new/I'm not that lonely little person/Still in love with you.” 

Almost 50 years later, Miley Cyrus came out with “Flowers.” The narrator feels sad over the end of her relationship until she realizes she can buy her own flowers and do whatever else she wants. “Yeah, I can love me better than you can,” Cyrus sings.

While many breakup songs mourn the loss of a relationship, the narrator “Flowers” sees her strengths. Being free means you don’t have to depend on the other’s person’s moods and tastes. You can take time for yourself.

Like “I Will Survive,” it’s an instant classic. It even won the 2024 record of the year from the Grammys. If you’re lying in bed feeling bad for yourself, you will want to get up. And you realize, as Miley sings, “I can take myself dancing.”