Introduction
The 1980s gave us big hair, bold fashion, and unforgettable anthems—and at the heart of it all was Irene Cara‘s electrifying hit “Flashdance… What a Feeling.” Released in 1983 as the theme song for the film Flashdance, this track became more than just a soundtrack staple. It was a rallying cry for dreamers, dancers, and anyone striving to break free and follow their passion.
The Birth of a Pop Anthem
“Flashdance… What a Feeling” was written by Giorgio Moroder, Keith Forsey, and Irene Cara herself. With Moroder’s signature synth-driven production and Cara’s soaring vocals, the song was a perfect match for the energetic and emotional journey of the movie’s lead character, Alex Owens—a steelworker by day and aspiring dancer by night.
Right from the opening lines:
“First, when there’s nothing but a slow glowing dream…”
listeners are pulled into a story of hope, resilience, and triumph.
Awards and Chart Success
The song was a massive commercial and critical success. It spent six weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and won numerous awards, including:
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🏆 Academy Award for Best Original Song (1984)
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🏆 Golden Globe Award for Best Original Song
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🏆 Grammy Award for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance
Irene Cara made history as one of the few Black women to win an Oscar for songwriting, solidifying her legacy in music and film.
More Than Just a Movie Song
While Flashdance the film was a box office hit, it’s the music—especially “What a Feeling”—that helped it become a cultural phenomenon. The song’s themes of self-belief, ambition, and emotional release through movement struck a chord with audiences around the world.
Whether played in dance studios, workout playlists, or motivational montages, the track continues to uplift and energize listeners.
Irene Cara’s Lasting Impact
Irene Cara was already known for her performance in Fame (1980), but “Flashdance… What a Feeling” elevated her to international superstardom. Her blend of powerhouse vocals, songwriting skill, and charisma made her a standout artist in an era full of icons.
Cara’s contribution to 1980s pop culture remains undeniable, and her passing in 2022 led to a wave of tributes from fans and fellow artists, all recognizing the inspiration she gave to a generation of dreamers.
Conclusion
“Flashdance… What a Feeling” is more than just a soundtrack hit—it’s a symbol of freedom, passion, and possibility. Irene Cara gave us a song that still gives goosebumps, encourages movement, and reminds us to believe in the power of dreams.
So go ahead—put on your leg warmers (real or metaphorical), hit play, and let the music move you. As Cara herself sang, “Take your passion and make it happen.”
Lyrics: Flashdance • What a Feeling
First when there’s nothing
But a slow glowing dream
That your fear seems to hide
Deep inside your mindAll alone, I have cried
Silent tears full of pride
In a world made of steel
Made of stoneWell, I hear the music
Close my eyes, feel the rhythm
Wrap around, take a hold of my heartWhat a feeling
Being’s believing
I can have it all
Now I’m dancing for my lifeTake your passion
And make it happen
Pictures come alive
You can dance right through your lifeNow I hear the music
Close my eyes, I am rhythm
In a flash, it takes hold of my heartWhat a feeling, being’s believing
I can have it all
Now I’m dancing for my lifeTake your passion
And make it happen
Pictures come alive
Now I’m dancing through my lifeWhat a feeling
What a feeling (I am music now)
Being’s believing (I am rhythm now)
Pictures come alive
You can dance right through your lifeWhat a feeling (I can really have it all)
What a feeling
(Pictures come alive when I call)
I can have it all (I can really have it all)Have it all (pictures come alive when I call)
(Call, call ,call, call, what a feeling)
I can have it all (being’s believing)
Being’s believing (take your passion)
(Make it happen) Make it happen
(What a feeling) What a feeling
