Introduction
There are moments in life when music becomes a source of comfort and strength. I remember the first time I heard A Little Bit Stronger by Sara Evans—it was like the song was speaking directly to me, reminding me that with each passing day, I was healing, even if just a little. The song’s message of resilience and emotional recovery has resonated deeply with countless listeners, making it one of the most powerful breakup anthems in country music.
About the Composition
- Title: A Little Bit Stronger
- Songwriters: Luke Laird, Hillary Lindsey, Hillary Scott
- Release Date: September 27, 2010
- Album: Stronger and Country Strong (soundtrack)
- Genre: Country
Background
A Little Bit Stronger was written by Luke Laird, Hillary Lindsey, and Hillary Scott of Lady Antebellum. The song was inspired by Scott’s personal experience with heartbreak, reflecting the gradual healing process after a painful breakup. Sara Evans recorded the song and released it as the lead single from her 2011 album Stronger. It also featured in the soundtrack of the 2010 film Country Strong.
Upon its release, A Little Bit Stronger quickly gained commercial and critical success. It reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart in May 2011, becoming Evans’ fifth chart-topping single. The song was later certified Platinum by the RIAA for its widespread popularity.
Musical Style
The song is a mid-tempo country ballad, characterized by its gentle yet powerful instrumentation, including mandolin, steel guitar, piano, and soft percussion. Sara Evans’ emotive vocals add depth to the song’s message, making it a deeply personal and relatable experience for listeners. The structure of the song mirrors the healing process, with each chorus emphasizing gradual emotional strength and recovery.
Lyrics Analysis
The lyrics of A Little Bit Stronger tell the story of a woman moving on from a painful relationship. It highlights the small but significant steps she takes each day—waking up, going to work, and slowly letting go of the past. The song beautifully captures the bittersweet moments of healing, from the sudden memories that bring back pain to the realization that the heart is, in fact, mending.
Performance History
Sara Evans delivered a memorable live performance of A Little Bit Stronger at the 2011 Academy of Country Music Awards, receiving widespread praise. She also performed it during the finale of Dancing with the Stars on May 24, 2011, further cementing its place in popular culture.
Cultural Impact
The song has had a significant influence on listeners, particularly those going through breakups or personal hardships. Its message of resilience and emotional strength has made it an anthem for healing. Many fans have shared how A Little Bit Stronger helped them navigate difficult times, proving the profound impact of music on emotional well-being.
Legacy
More than a decade after its release, A Little Bit Stronger remains one of Sara Evans’ most beloved songs. It not only marked a strong comeback for her career but also solidified her ability to connect with audiences through raw and heartfelt storytelling. The song continues to be a staple in country music, played on radio stations and streaming platforms, serving as a reminder that healing is a journey—one step at a time.
Conclusion
A Little Bit Stronger is a song that speaks to the heart. It reminds us that, no matter how painful a breakup or a loss may be, we do get stronger with time. If you haven’t already, take a moment to listen to this beautiful song and experience its message of hope and resilience.
Video
Lyrics
Woke up late today and I
Still feel the sting of the pain, but I
Brushed my teeth anyway
I got dressed through the mess and put a smile on my face
I got a little bit stronger
Ridin’ in the car to work and I’m
Tryin’ to ignore the hurt, so I
Turned on the radio
Stupid song made me think of you
I listened to it for a minute
But then I changed it
I’m gettin’ a little bit stronger
Just a little bit stronger
And I’m done hopin’
That we could work it out
I’m done with how it feels
Spinnin’ my wheels
Lettin’ you drag my heart around, and oh
And I’m done thinkin’
That you could ever change
I know my heart will never be the same
But I’m tellin’ myself I’ll be okay
Even on my weakest days
I get a little bit stronger
It doesn’t happen overnight, but you
Turn around and a month’s gone by and you
Realize you haven’t cried
I’m not givin’ you an hour or a second or another minute longer
I’m busy gettin’ stronger
And I’m done hopin’
That we could work it out
I’m done with how it feels
Spinnin’ my wheels
Lettin’ you drag my heart around, and oh
And I’m done thinkin’
That you could ever change
I know my heart will never be the same
But I’m tellin’ myself I’ll be okay
Even on my weakest days
I get a little bit stronger
I get a little bit stronger
I’m gettin’ along without you, baby
I’m better off without you, baby
How does it feel without me, baby?
I’m gettin’ stronger without you, baby
And I’m done hopin’
We could work it out
I’m done with how it feels
Spinnin’ my wheels
And lettin’ you drag my heart around, and oh
And I’m done thinkin’
That you could ever change
I know my heart will never be the same
But I’m tellin’ myself I’ll be okay
Even on my weakest days
I get a little bit stronger
I get a little bit stronger
I’m just a little bit stronger
(Hey, yeah, hey, yeah) a little bit, a little bit
A little bit stronger
(Hey, yeah)
(Hey, yeah) I’m gettin’ a little bit stronger
(Hey, yeah)