Released: 2017
“Whatever It Takes” by Imagine Dragons is a powerhouse of a song that serves up a hefty dose of motivation, wrapped in the electrifying energy of pop-rock. It’s like a battle cry for those ready to push beyond their limits, with a strong focus on embracing challenges head-on. The song taps into the thrill of the hustle, the addiction to the rush of pushing past boundaries, and a promise to go all in, no matter the cost.
The opening lines pull us into a world where falling too fast and tripping in life’s dangerous turns are par for the course. It’s not just about the risks but how being surrounded by negativity and challenges can feel like being circled by vultures. Here, the imagery of a world quick to bring you down sets the stage for a story of resilience. The protagonist declares an inherent drive, “I was born to run, I was born for this,” signaling a deep-rooted purpose to rise above the fray.
The chorus hits like a rush of adrenaline, literally. Imagine Dragons fold in a love for the adrenaline in my veins, symbolizing the thrill and satisfaction of breaking through personal limitations, which they refer to as “breaking the chains”. This idea of doing whatever it takes isn’t just about ambition; it’s about loving the journey, the fight, and being ready to take on the top, showcasing a blend of ambition and the joy found in the struggle itself.
The verses and bridge introduce an intimate internal battle. The song touches on fears of being ordinary and the dissatisfaction that comes from comparison and self-doubt, “Looking at my body, feeling miserable”. Yet, there’s a swift pivot to ambition and self-definition. The lyrics “I’m just a product of the system, a catastrophe / And yet a masterpiece” capture the duality of feeling broken yet whole, flawed yet perfect. It’s this acceptance of contradiction that fuels the drive to keep pushing, to keep evolving.
By the end, “Whatever It Takes” wraps into a powerful lesson on perseverance, identity, and the pursuit of passion. It’s not just about achieving greatness but embracing every facet of the journey there, including the lows that make the highs so rewarding. Imagine Dragons leave us with an anthem that acts as a reminder: the pursuit of our dreams is fraught with challenges, but facing them head-on is both necessary and deeply rewarding. A song that champions the spirit of never giving up, it embodies the essence of determination and the beauty of chasing what you love, with every bit of fire you have.
