3 Songs That Remind Us to Stay Strong Through Tough Times
hold on: to stay strong or patient during difficult times, or while waiting for help
When life overwhelms us, sometimes the words “hold on” are all we need to hear. These two small words are a reminder to stay strong or wait for better times to come. Three unforgettable songs bring “hold on” to life in different ways.
“Hold On, I’m Comin” by Sam & Dave is a hit song from 1966. The title was inspired by a funny moment shared between bandmates. When songwriter Isaac Hayes yelled to Dave Porter to hurry up out of the bathroom, he responded, “hold on, I’m coming.” The old song continues to be a well-known anthem for staying strong. It is a favorite song of Donald Trump, who is being sued by Isaac Hayes’ family for the unauthorized use of the song.
John Lennon’s song “Hold On” is deeply personal, written during a time of self-reflection for John and Yoko Ono. It shows how “hold on” can be a message to yourself and your loved ones to stay strong and trust in better days.
R.E.M.’s “Everybody Hurts” sends a universal message of comfort and hope to anyone feeling alone. Its simple but heartfelt lyrics remind us to “hold on” through the pain that we all experience.
Watch the videos below to see if “hold on” speaks to you through these 3 famous songs.
Sample sentences
She felt overwhelmed with too many hours at work, but her boss asked her to hold on until the next year when the company would hire more workers.
The soldiers were tired, but they had to hold on until reinforcements arrived.
After the accident, the ambulance workers told the injured passengers to hold on until they arrived at the hospital.