Simply Red – Holding Back The Years

About the Song

In the realm of music, there are songs that touch the soul, resonate with universal emotions, and transcend the boundaries of time. Simply Red’s “Holding Back the Years” is one such masterpiece. Released in 1985, this soulful ballad has become an enduring classic, captivating generations of listeners with its poignant lyrics and heartfelt melody.

Mick Hucknall, the charismatic frontman of Simply Red, pours his heart and soul into the song, his vocals imbued with a raw emotion that resonates deeply with listeners. The opening lines, “Thinking of the fear I’ve had so long,” set the stage for a journey through the depths of human emotion, exploring themes of regret, lost love, and the yearning for a brighter future.

The chorus, with its anthemic refrain of “I’ll keep holding on,” serves as a beacon of hope amidst the darkness. It’s a declaration of resilience, a refusal to succumb to despair, and a testament to the indomitable human spirit. Hucknall’s voice soars during these lines, conveying a sense of unwavering determination that uplifts and inspires.

The song’s instrumentation, a blend of soulful horns, smooth basslines, and gentle percussion, provides a lush backdrop for Hucknall’s vocals. The arrangement is understated yet powerful, perfectly complementing the song’s emotional depth. The guitar solo, a tasteful and expressive interlude, adds a touch of poignancy, further emphasizing the song’s heartfelt message.

“Holding Back the Years” has garnered critical acclaim and commercial success, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States and becoming a staple of radio stations worldwide. It has also been featured in numerous films and television shows, further cementing its status as a cultural touchstone.

But beyond its commercial appeal, “Holding Back the Years” has struck a chord with listeners on a personal level. Its lyrics have resonated with countless individuals grappling with their own struggles and yearning for a better future. The song’s message of hope and resilience has offered solace and inspiration, reminding us that even in the face of adversity, we have the strength to persevere.

“Holding Back the Years” is more than just a song; it’s an emotional anthem that has touched the lives of millions. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its power to connect with listeners on a profound level. It’s a song that speaks to the human spirit, reminding us of our capacity for hope, resilience, and the unwavering belief in a brighter tomorrow.

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Lyrics: Holding Back The Years 

Holding back the years
Thinking of the fear I’ve had so long
When somebody hears
Listen to the fear that’s gone
Strangled by the wishes of pater
Hoping for the arms of mater
Get to me the sooner or later

I’ll keep holding on
I’ll keep holding on

Holding back the years
Chance for me to escape from all I’ve known
Holding back the tears
Cause nothing here has grown
I’ve wasted all my tears
Wasted all those years
And nothing had the chance to be good
Nothing ever could yeah, oh

I’ll keep holding on
I’ll keep holding on
I’ll keep holding on
I’ll keep holding on
So tight

I’ve wasted all my tears
Wasted all of those years
And nothing had the chance to be good
Cause nothing ever could, oh, yeah
Oh…

I’ll keep holding on
I’ll keep holding on
I’ll keep holding on
I’ll keep holding on
Holding, holding, holding

That’s all I have today
It’s all I have to say