They moved to New York to study theatre at the American Musical and Dramatic Academy. Their original plan was to pursue a career on Broadway, but they soon changed their mind and returned to music. After moving to Atlanta, Georgia in 2003, Monáe founded the Wondaland Arts Society with like-minded young artists, and made a couple of appearances on OutKast's 2006 album Idlewild, where they are featured on the songs "Call the Law" and "In Your Dreams".
By 2007, Monáe was ready to release her first solo work, titled Metropolis. It was originally conceived as a concept album in four parts, or suites, which were to be released through her website and mp3 download sites. After the release of the first part of the series, Metropolis Suite I of IV: The Chase in mid-2007, these plans were altered following them signing with Sean "Diddy" Combs' label, Bad Boy Records, later in the year. The label gave an official and physical release to the first suite in August 2008, which was retitled Metropolis: The Chase Suite (Special Edition) and included two new tracks. The EP was generally well-received by critics, gaining Monáe a 2009 Grammy nomination in the Best Urban/Alternative Performance for their single "Many Moons", festival appearances, and opening slots for the indie pop band Of Montreal. Monáe also toured as the opening act for band No Doubt on their summer 2009 tour.
In a November 2009 interview, Monáe revealed the title and concept behind her album The ArchAndroid. The second and third suites of Metropolis are combined into this full-length release, in which Monáe's alter-ego, Cindi Mayweather - also the protagonist of Metropolis: The Chase Suite - becomes a messiah-like figure to the android community of Metropolis.
Without a Fight
Janelle Monáe Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
It seemed so far away, hey
Da, dada, dadadada
It's so funny how quick things can change
Don't wanna make the same mistakes, hey
Over and over again
I'll push myself a little harder
'Cause my dreams ain't that much farther, hey
I won't give up without a fight
I'ma reach for the sky, try 'till I get it right
So I can see the day
When I can have things my way
I'ma start all over
Things are getting closer
I can see it, baby
Although I've had my highs and lows
I'ma push down that road, yeah
Da, dada, dadadada
My Lord keeps sending me the signs
I know this one is gonna be mine, yeah
It won't happen if I don't try, no
This time I'll be a little smarter
I'll push myself a little harder
'Cause my dreams ain't that much farther, hey
I won't give up without a fight
I'ma reach for the sky, try 'till I get it right
So I can see the day
When I can have things my way
I'ma start all over
Things are getting closer
I can see it, baby
I won't give up without a fight
I'ma reach for the sky, try 'till I get it right
So I can see the day
When I can have things my way
I'ma start all over
Things are getting closer, alright
I'ma be that one shining brighter than the sun
Da, dada, dadadoda
It's time to have some fun
Feels like I've already won
Don't give up without a fight
I won't give up without a fight
I'ma reach for the sky, try 'till I get it right
So I can see the day
When I can have things my way
I'ma start all over
Things are getting closer
I can see it, baby
I won't give up without a fight
I'ma reach for the sky, try 'till I get it right
So I can see the day
When I can have things my way
I'ma start all over
Things are getting closer
I can see it, baby
See it, see it
The song "Without a Fight" by Janelle Monae is an inspiring anthem that talks about perseverance and determination. The lyrics convey the message of never giving up on one's dreams even when faced with challenges and obstacles along the way. The first verse talks about how improbable the day seemed to happen, and yet it did. It goes on to explain how quickly things can change in life, and how important it is not to make the same mistakes repeatedly.
The singer then talks about pushing herself harder and being smarter in pursuing her dreams. She believes that her dreams are not that far away and that she should pursue them with all her might. The chorus of the song emphasizes the importance of not giving up and trying until one succeeds. She believes that with enough effort, she can have things her way and see the day when her dreams come true.
The song then talks about starting over, believing that things are getting closer to her dreams, and that she can see it. She believes that with a little hard work and perseverance, she will be shining brighter than the sun and eventually win. The song ends with reinforcing the message of not giving up without a fight.
Overall, the song is a motivational message that encourages people to never stop pursuing their dreams, no matter how hard it seems. The lyrics are relatable to anyone who has ever faced adversity in their lives and serves as a reminder that perseverance is key to success.
Line by Line Meaning
I kept thinkin' I could never see this day
I never thought I could achieve my dreams or goals.
It's so funny how quick things can change
It's surprising how fast life can change and how quickly I can progress.
This time I'll be a little smarter
I've learned from my past mistakes and I will be more intelligent in my approach.
I won't give up without a fight
I won't abandon my dreams without trying my best to achieve them.
I'ma start all over
I'll begin again from scratch, with a fresh mindset and renewed determination.
Although I've had my highs and lows
I've experienced many ups and downs, but I won't let them defeat me.
My Lord keeps sending me the signs
The universe is guiding me towards my goals and I must have faith in myself.
I'ma be that one shining brighter than the sun
I will be successful and will radiate positivity and light.
Feels like I've already won
I am already victorious in my mind and my heart.
Don't give up without a fight
Keep striving towards your dreams even when it's tough.
Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Kobalt Music Publishing Ltd.
Written by: ERIC BELLINGER, ERICA NURI, HARMONY SAMUELS
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
Mmmiyaa
I love this song!! Janelle Monae is such an incredible artist and her music is so motivating!
Melica Niccole
I love this song! It's very motivating. I listen to it everyday to keep me pushing. "This time i'll be a little smarter. I'll push myself a little harder 'cause my dreams aren't that much further."
Symphony Young
This song makes me feel happy and strong
Ace18Diamond
Just loving every song she produces!! Positive motivation right her
Ricky Williams
Janelle Monae is one of my all time favorite artists. she's creative, innovative, and inspirational. she's a breath of fresh air, and helps me see life in a more imaginative and positive way. i <3 her!
andreamonae
Love It !! She has some of the hottest beats, beautiful voice..... Awesome !!!
tia hill
i absolutely love this lady!!!! #TEAMJANELLE
Meck Kelly
I have so much faith in her, Cee Lo, and even Frank Ocean. I can't wait to hear more from her!
sancharram1
Fell completely in love with this song first time I heard it....
prcornbread214
shes addicting i love her music! i cant get enough of her cds