Meaning of Young, Gifted & Black by Elton John

The Elton John song "Young, Gifted & Black" is a powerful anthem that celebrates the beauty, potential, and triumphs of being young, gifted, and black. The song's overall theme revolves around the idea of empowerment and the importance of embracing one's identity and talents with pride. Elton John's rendition of the iconic Nina Simone song adds his own unique flair while retaining the song's essential message.From the opening lines, "Young, gifted and black, Oh, what a lovely precious dream," Elton John sets the tone for the song, highlighting the dream-like quality of being young and black. This lyric hints at the idea that being young and gifted is not just something to aspire to, but rather a reality that can be embraced and celebrated.As the song progresses, it becomes clear that "Young, Gifted & Black" urges its listeners to recognize and nurture the potential within themselves and others. Elton John's version accentuates this message by adding his own brand of musicality and passion to the lyrics. The joyful and upbeat tone of the song further reinforces the idea that being young, gifted, and black should be a source of pride and joy.One standout lyric in the song is, "In the whole world, you know there's a million boys and girls, who are young, gifted and black, and that's a fact." This lyric suggests that being young and black is not a singular experience, but rather a shared identity that binds individuals together. It introduces the theme of community and the power that comes from uniting with others who share similar experiences and aspirations.Another important lyric is, "When you feel really low, yeah, there's a great truth you should know, when you're young, gifted and black, your soul's intact." This lyric speaks to the resilience and inner strength that comes from embracing one's identity. It reminds listeners that despite facing challenges and setbacks, their true worth and essence remain untouched. The lyric also touches on the theme of self-acceptance and the importance of embracing one's soul and inner beauty.The line, "Young, gifted and black, how I long to know the truth, there are times when I look back and I am haunted by my youth," delves into the theme of nostalgia and reflection. It suggests that even though being young, gifted, and black is something to celebrate, there may be moments when one longs to understand the full extent of their heritage and history. This lyric invites listeners to explore their roots and find strength in their cultural heritage.The concluding lyric of the song, "To be young, gifted and black is where it's at," serves as a powerful mantra that encourages listeners to fully embrace their identity and recognize the unlimited possibilities that come with it. It reiterates the overarching message of the song and reinforces the idea that being young, gifted, and black is not only something to be proud of but a source of greatness.Overall, the song "Young, Gifted & Black" by Elton John conveys a message of empowerment and self-acceptance. Through its celebratory tone and uplifting lyrics, the song encourages individuals to embrace their youthfulness, embrace their gifts, and embrace their blackness. It promotes a sense of community, resilience, and pride in one's identity. The various standout lyrics in the song help explore unexpected themes such as community, self-acceptance, reflection, and the longing to connect with one's roots. Ultimately, this inspirational anthem serves as a reminder that being young, gifted, and black is not just a dream but a reality to be celebrated.