From the Levitate (album) .. 2009.
Features: Bruce Hornsby (piano, dulcimer, vocals, keyboards); Bobby Read (reeds); J.V. Collier (bass); Sonny Emory (drums); J.T. Thomas (organ, keyboards); Doug Derryberry (guitar), Keefus Ciancia (new sounds).
Closed the Spike Lee documentary about Kobe Brant: “Kobe Doin’ Work”.
Levitate meaning
“Levitate” by Bruce Hornsby is a song about empowerment, self-determination, and the pursuit of transcendence. The central metaphor of levitation represents rising above challenges, limitations, and cynicism. The song encourages listeners to take control of their own lives, to actively pursue growth and achievement, and to believe in their ability to overcome obstacles.
The lyrics also highlight the power of collective effort, with references to community and pivotal moments of change. The idea of levitating becomes not just a personal journey but something shared by a group, representing larger transformations in society or history.
The theme of personal empowerment
The song emphasises the importance of self-confidence and taking control of one’s fate. Phrases like “you are the master of your own fate” encourage listeners to believe in their ability to shape their future. This idea of personal empowerment is reinforced throughout the song, suggesting that individuals have the power to rise above circumstances through action and determination.
Bruce contrasts those who actively pursue their goals with those who remain passive or cynical, such as the “cynical armchair experts.” The message is clear: growth and success come through effort, not idleness or doubt.
Levitation as a metaphor for transcendence
Levitation in the song is a metaphor for transcending limitations, whether they are external challenges or internal doubts. The repetition of “get up little children, levitate” serves as a rallying call for people to rise up, break free of constraints, and seek higher states of achievement or enlightenment.
The idea of a “euphoric state” or “ecstatic state” that the protagonist searches for symbolises the ultimate goal of personal growth. This is not just about material success but about reaching a place of fulfilment and joy through hard work and persistence.
Cultural references and the importance of history
There are several lines in the song that suggest a broader historical or cultural context, indicating that the personal journey of levitation is also tied to larger societal changes. Phrases like “gather ’round the schoolyard gate, history will record this date” hint at moments of transformation, both personal and communal.
The reference to “shifting tectonic plates” symbolises deep and fundamental changes in the world, as if the forces of history are moving to allow new possibilities. This could be interpreted as a metaphor for societal shifts, where significant moments create opportunities for individuals or communities to rise up and make their mark on history.
Confidence and action as drivers of success
The lyrics focus on the importance of confidence and decisive action as the drivers of success. The protagonist speaks of being well-prepared, ready to face any challenge, and acting without hesitation. Confidence “elevates,” much like a “skater with the best of skates,” implying that when people are equipped with the right mindset and skills, they can rise to any occasion.
The repeated line “I will act and not hesitate” serves as a mantra for taking initiative and pursuing goals without delay or doubt. The protagonist is energised, full of excitement that “will not abate,” suggesting that momentum builds as one takes action.
Community and shared achievement
In addition to personal empowerment, “Levitate” also touches on the power of collective effort. The phrase “the village children levitate” suggests that the protagonist’s journey is not one of solitary success but part of a shared experience. The act of levitating is something that can be achieved by many, and it carries the potential to uplift a whole community or group.
The reference to “history recording this date” also suggests that these moments of collective action can have lasting impacts, shaping the future in profound ways. Bruce links individual growth with communal progress, indicating that when people come together and rise up, they can create significant change.
A song of empowerment and collective transcendence
“Levitate” is a celebration of personal empowerment, confidence, and the ability to rise above challenges through determination and action. Bruce uses the metaphor of levitation to represent transcendence, both on an individual and communal level, suggesting that people can achieve great things by working hard, staying confident, and seizing opportunities for growth.
The song’s references to history and the idea of collective achievement add depth to this message, showing that personal empowerment can also contribute to larger societal transformations. Through this, “Levitate” becomes not just a song of personal triumph but also a call to action for communities to rise together and create lasting change.