Keep On Pushing
Impressions Lyrics
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Keep on pushing
I've got to keep on pushing (mmm-hmm)
I can't stop now
Move up a little higher
Some way, somehow
And it don't make sense
Not to keep on pushing
Hallelujah, hallelujah
Keep on pushing
Now maybe some day (mmm-hmm)
I'll reach that higher goal
I know I can make it
With just a little bit of soul
'Cause I've got my strength
And it don't make sense
Not to keep on pushing
Now look-a look (look-a look)
A-look-a yonder
What's that I see
A great big stone wall
Stands there ahead of me
But I've got my pride
And I'll move on aside
And keep on pushing
Hallelujah, hallelujah
Keep on pushing
Keep on pushing, what'd I say
Keep on pushing, well it's all right
Keep on pushing
The Impressions' "Keep On Pushing" is a song about perseverance and determination, as the lyrics encourage the listener to keep moving forward despite any obstacles that may be in their way. The repetition of the phrase "keep on pushing" throughout the song serves as a mantra, reinforcing the idea that giving up is not an option. The lyrics also touch upon the idea that success is attainable with hard work and a little bit of soul, and that reaching a higher goal is possible if one continues to push themselves.
The song's upbeat tempo is driven by a catchy, soulful melody that complements the motivational lyrics. The use of gospel-style call-and-response vocals adds to the uplifting mood of the song, and the bridge's reference to a "great big stone wall" creates a powerful visual representation of the obstacles that may stand in one's way.
One possible interpretation of the song's message is that it was written during the Civil Rights movement, and could have been seen as a call to action for those fighting for equality and justice. The lyrics could be seen as a reminder that progress may be slow and difficult, but it is important to keep pushing forward in the pursuit of a better future.
Line by Line Meaning
Keep on pushing
Encouragement to persevere in the face of difficulty
I've got to keep on pushing (mmm-hmm)
Affirmation of the need to persist through challenging circumstances
I can't stop now
Resistance against giving up or surrendering to despair
Move up a little higher
Suggestion to strive for continued progress and improvement
Some way, somehow
Affirmation of the potential to find a solution to the problem at hand
'Cause I've got my strength
Recognition of personal fortitude and resilience
And it don't make sense
Acknowledgement that giving up in the face of adversity is illogical
Not to keep on pushing
Reaffirmation of the importance of persistence and determination
Hallelujah, hallelujah
Expression of joy and celebration in the midst of hardship
Now maybe some day (mmm-hmm)
Hopeful anticipation of future success and accomplishment
I'll reach that higher goal
Desire to achieve a significant accomplishment or aspiration
I know I can make it
Self-assurance in one's ability to achieve success
With just a little bit of soul
Reference to inner strength or spirit necessary to overcome obstacles
Now look-a look (look-a look)
Attention to an obstacle or challenge that may seem insurmountable
A-look-a yonder
Expression of optimism related to a distant or problematic goal
What's that I see
Commentary on a potential roadblock or impediment
A great big stone wall
Reference to an obstacle or challenge that may seem insurmountable
Stands there ahead of me
Recognition that the obstacle is tangible and present
But I've got my pride
Recognition of personal worth and self-respect
And I'll move on aside
Commitment to finding an alternative route or solution
And keep on pushing
Reaffirmation of the importance of persistence and determination
Hallelujah, hallelujah
Expression of joy and celebration in the midst of hardship
Keep on pushing, what'd I say
Reiteration of the song's central message about persistence
Keep on pushing, well it's all right
Assurance that the effort and struggle will ultimately be worth it
Keep on pushing
Encouragement to persevere in the face of difficulty
Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: CURTIS L MAYFIELD
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind