How Laura Branigan Transformed an Italian Classic into an Iconic 80s Post-Disco Sensation
A hit song resonates powerfully, regardless of the language in which it is sung. Laura Branigan undoubtedly embraced this idea, especially given her remarkable success during the 1980s as one of the most beloved female vocalists of the era. She was particularly skilled at taking songs that had already found success internationally and reinterpreting them for English-speaking audiences.
This trend began with the explosive release of “Gloria” in 1982, a track that skyrocketed to fame and established Branigan as a household name among pop music enthusiasts. Interestingly, many fans might have been unaware that this song originated from an Italian version released a few years prior.
Introducing Laura
Laura Branigan, hailing from New York State, embarked on her musical journey in the early 1970s when she joined a folk band called Meadow. Although the band produced one album, it failed to garner significant attention, leading to its disbandment. This left Branigan seeking new avenues to showcase her talent.
She spent some time providing backing vocals for the renowned Leonard Cohen. Her solo career, however, had a rocky start. Her debut single, “All Night With Me,” did not achieve much success. Yet, her second single, “Gloria,” which had already made waves in Europe, presented a new opportunity. The question remained: would it capture American audiences in the same way?
Lost in Translation
The original "Gloria" was penned by Italian singer Umberto Tozzi, who co-wrote it with Giancarlo Bigazzi and released it in 1979. The melody and instrumental arrangement of Tozzi's version laid the groundwork for what Branigan would later adopt. The Italian lyrics tell the poignant story of a girl whose absence profoundly affects the narrator, leaving room for interpretation about her existence—does she truly exist, or is she merely a figment of his imagination?
Branigan’s producer, Jack White, recognized the potential in remaking “Gloria.” Coincidentally, Greg Mathieson, who played keyboards on Tozzi's original recording, also contributed to Branigan's rendition. Initially, Branigan was unsure about the song's appeal, but a lyrical makeover by Trevor Veitch sparked her interest.
“Gloria” became the perfect showcase for Branigan's powerful, emotive voice. The track surged in popularity, climbing to No. 2 on the US pop charts and solidifying Branigan's status as the go-to artist for songs that had previously tested the waters in Europe. Subsequent hits like “Solitaire,” “Self Control,” and “Ti Amo” further established her legacy, all of which were adaptations of works by international artists.
Decoding the Lyrics
Branigan's revised version of “Gloria” introduces a narrator who advises a young woman to slow down and reassess her choices. Lines such as, “I think you’re headed for a breakdown,” reflect this cautionary tone. The narrator queries, “If everybody wants you, why isn’t anybody calling?” hinting at Gloria’s tumultuous circumstances. Later verses delve deeper into Gloria’s romantic endeavors, questioning, “How’s it gonna go down?” and pondering whether she will encounter love or heartbreak.
The underlying message suggests that Gloria’s pursuit of love may overshadow her better judgment, warning, “Feel your innocence slipping away, don’t believe it’s comin’ back down.”
“Gloria” stands out as a quintessential pop anthem, where the lively instrumentation contrasts sharply with the serious themes expressed in the lyrics. Laura Branigan delivered this song with undeniable passion, leaving her unique mark on this international classic.
Photo by Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images
