Generally speaking, rooting for the St. Louis Blues might be tough for some, especially if you’re a Nashville Predators fan. Division rivals, you know how it goes. However, this season, the Blue Notes inadvertently did something remarkable: they rekindled a widespread adoration for Laura Branigan’s iconic 1982 hit, “Gloria.” This resurgence has sparked a fascinating conversation around the “Glooooria Song” phenomenon.
The story behind the St. Louis Blues adopting “Gloria” as their victory anthem is genuinely charming. Apparently, a few Blues players stumbled upon the track while watching a football game at a bar, and the rest is history. It’s no exaggeration to say that since then, “Gloria” has been played countless times throughout the Stanley Cup playoffs, becoming synonymous with their wins.
This infectious enthusiasm led to a deep dive into the song’s rich history. Originally penned in Italian in 1979 by Umberto Tozzi, “Gloria” crossed borders and languages to become a global sensation with Branigan’s powerful rendition. Exploring Branigan’s career unveils even more captivating details, such as her time touring as a backup singer for the legendary Leonard Cohen in the 1970s. The enduring impact of “Gloria” is even more poignant considering Branigan’s passing in 2004, making the song’s renewed popularity a bittersweet moment, as highlighted by her former manager.
The “Gloria” rabbit hole goes deeper than just Branigan’s hit. It turns out there’s a surprising number of songs titled “Gloria,” each with its own unique flavor and story. While Branigan’s disco-infused anthem is undeniably fantastic, it’s just one piece of the “glooooria song” puzzle. So, let’s embark on a crash course through some of the best and, arguably, not-so-best songs that share the name “Gloria,” ranking them in a journey through musical history.
Exploring the Spectrum of “Glooooria Song”
Here’s a curated list, diving into the diverse world of “Gloria” songs, from indie folk to punk rock anthems:
7. “Gloria,” The Lumineers
Kicking off the list is “Gloria” by The Lumineers, the lead single from their album III. The Lumineers are known for their folk-pop sound, often described as accessible or “diet folk.” While commercially successful, their music can sometimes be perceived as overly polished or lacking depth. This “Gloria” embodies that sentiment. It’s pleasant enough, with their signature acoustic instrumentation and earnest vocals, but it doesn’t quite capture the raw emotion or energy that a song titled “Gloria” should arguably possess. For listeners seeking something more substantial, this version might fall a bit flat.
6. “Gloria,” U2
U2’s “Gloria,” the opening track from their 1981 album October, is an ambitious attempt that doesn’t fully realize its potential. The verses move at a brisk pace, building anticipation, but the chorus, with Bono’s Latin lines, feels somewhat anticlimactic and disrupts the song’s flow. It’s as if the song is struggling to find its identity. The energy picks up again in the final 30 seconds, hinting at what could have been, before fading out. Ultimately, U2’s “Gloria” feels like a promising idea that needed further development to truly shine as a “glooooria song”.
5. “Gloria,” The Cadillacs
The Cadillacs’ “Gloria” holds a unique place in pop culture trivia. It’s famously the song Billy Joel transitions into at the end of “The River of Dreams.” While “The River of Dreams” is a popular track, it’s worth remembering that it lost the Record of the Year Grammy to Whitney Houston’s iconic “I Will Always Love You” in 1994. This “Gloria” is a classic doo-wop tune, pleasant and nostalgic, but perhaps not as impactful or memorable as other versions on this list. It’s a fun fact and a decent song, but not a standout “glooooria song” in the broader musical landscape.
4. “Gloria,” Mineral
Moving into the realm of 90s emo, Mineral’s “Gloria” from their 1997 debut The Power of Failing is a powerful and emotionally resonant track. Mineral, pioneers of the emo genre, masterfully blend emotive vocals reminiscent of Sunny Day Real Estate with cathartic guitar work akin to Hum. “Gloria” encapsulates this perfectly, creating a swirling vortex of feelings that grips the listener. The song builds and releases tension with precision, making every second a cathartic experience. For fans of 90s emo and emotionally charged music, Mineral’s “Gloria” is a must-listen “glooooria song.”
3. “Gloria,” Tierra Whack
Here’s where the list truly elevates. Tierra Whack, a rapper hailing from Philadelphia, brings a unique and poetic flow to her music. Fans of artists like Noname will find much to appreciate in Whack’s style. Her “Gloria” is a fascinating blend of boastfulness and humility. She juxtaposes lines about still struggling as a working artist with nonchalant mentions of buying a Lamborghini. This duality makes the song relatable and intriguing. “Gloria” is just one of several standout singles Whack released, showcasing her innovative and often quirky approach to rap. Her willingness to experiment and embrace the unconventional makes Tierra Whack a force to be reckoned with in contemporary music, and “Gloria” a standout “glooooria song” in her discography.
Laura Branigan Gloria Song
2. “Gloria,” Laura Branigan
Laura Branigan’s “Gloria” holds the second spot, a testament to its enduring popularity and cultural impact, especially with the recent resurgence thanks to the St. Louis Blues. Branigan herself reportedly described the song as being about “a girl that’s running too fast for her own steps.” This resonates perfectly with the Blues’ unexpected journey to the Stanley Cup Finals after being last in the league earlier in the season. The song’s high-energy disco beat and Branigan’s powerful vocals create an anthem of urgency and determination. While originally released in the early 80s, its themes of ambition and navigating life’s fast pace remain timeless. Branigan’s “Gloria” is more than just a song; it’s a cultural touchstone and a definitive “glooooria song” for many.
1. “Gloria,” Patti Smith
Taking the top spot is Patti Smith’s rendition of “Gloria.” While Van Morrison’s 1964 original is undeniably influential and has been covered by numerous artists, Patti Smith’s 1975 version elevates it to another level. Smith masterfully fuses Morrison’s three-chord garage rock classic with her own poem “Oath,” creating a raw and powerful punk rock anthem. The opening line, “Jesus died for somebody’s sins, but not mine,” is iconic and sets the tone for a rebellious and intensely personal performance. Smith’s “Gloria” is not just a cover; it’s a reinterpretation that embodies the spirit of punk rock and cemented her status as a groundbreaking artist. For its sheer audacity, poetic power, and musical innovation, Patti Smith’s “Gloria” reigns supreme as the ultimate “glooooria song.”
The Enduring Legacy of “Gloria” Songs
From doo-wop to disco, emo to punk rock, the name “Gloria” has resonated across genres and generations. The St. Louis Blues’ adoption of Laura Branigan’s hit has not only given the song a new lease on life but has also sparked a renewed appreciation for the diverse landscape of “glooooria song” offerings. Whether you prefer the high-energy pop of Branigan, the raw power of Patti Smith, or the emotional depth of Mineral, there’s a “Gloria” song out there for everyone to discover and enjoy. The story of “Gloria” is a testament to the enduring power of music and how a single name can inspire a multitude of unforgettable songs.
