Optimistic
Sounds of Blackness
Watch: New Singing Lesson Videos Can Make Anyone A Great Singer
Keep, keep on Never say die When in the midst of sorrow You can' t see up when looking down A brighter day tomorrow will bring You hear the voice of reason Telling you this can't never be done No matter how hard reality seems Just hold on to your dreams Don't give up and don't give in Although it seems you never win You will always pass the test As long as you keep your head to the sky You can win as long as you keep your head to the sky You can win as long as you keep your head to the sky Be optimistic If things around you crumble No, you don't have to stumble and fall Keep pushing on and don't you look back I know of storms and strive I been around them all of life Just think ahead and you'll be inspired To reach higher and higher. You'll always do your best If you learn to never say never You maybe down, but you're not out. Don't give up and don't give in Although it seems you never win You will always pass the test As long as you keep your head to the sky You can win as long as you keep your head to the sky (you can win child!) You can win as long as you keep your head to the sky Be optimistic Don't you let no body stop you Be optimistic You can win, yes Never say die.
The easy, fast & fun way to learn how to sing: 30DaySinger.com
Written by: Gary Dennis Hines, James Samuel Harris, Terry Steven Lewis
Lyrics © Kobalt Music Publishing Ltd.
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
10 facts about this song
Genre Classification"Optimistic" is categorized under the genre of Gospel and R&B music. The song beautifully blends elements of soul, gospel, and upbeat modern R&B, providing a distinctive flavor.
|
Release DateThe song was released in the year 1991 as part of the group's third studio album, "The Evolution of Gospel".
|
Chart Performance"Optimistic" achieved notable chart success in the United States. It peaked at number 3 on the Billboard R&B Singles chart and number 6 on the Dance Club Songs chart.
|
Grammy SuccessThe album "The Evolution of Gospel", which includes "Optimistic", won the 1992 Grammy Award for Best Gospel Choir or Chorus Album.
|
Peak PopularityThe song reached significant popularity during the early 90s, particularly within the African American community, due to its uplifting and positive lyrics drawing from gospel and spiritual motifs.
|
Artist ProfileThe group performing this song, Sounds of Blackness, showcases a wide spectrum of African American music which ranging from jazz and blues to rock and roll, besides gospel and R&B. They are known for their inspiring lyrics and powerful vocals.
|
Lyricist and Composers"Optimistic" was written by the talented duo of Gary Hines and Terry Lewis alongside James "Jimmy Jam" Harris, who are acclaimed producers and songwriters.
|
Cultural ImpactThe song is considered a cultural touchstone, particularly for the Black community in America. Its message of hope and resilience resonated deeply, especially during challenging periods.
|
LongevityEven after decades of its initial release, "Optimistic" remains a popular and influential song. It has frequently featured on playlists and in media, including television shows and films.
|
Select Covers & SamplesThe song has been covered and sampled by various artists over the years, showcasing its enduring influence in music. Notable examples include August Greene (a collective featuring rapper Common, pianist Robert Glasper, and drummer Karriem Riggins) who covered "Optimistic" in 2018.
|
Citation
Use the citation below to add these lyrics to your bibliography:
Style:MLAChicagoAPA
"Optimistic Lyrics." Lyrics.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2023. Web. 29 Nov. 2023. <https://www.lyrics.com/lyric/6359636/Sounds+of+Blackness/Optimistic>.
Discuss the Optimistic Lyrics with the community:
Report Comment
We're doing our best to make sure our content is useful, accurate and safe.
If by any chance you spot an inappropriate comment while navigating through our website please use this form to let us know, and we'll take care of it shortly.
Attachment
You need to be logged in to favorite.
Log In