Tina Turner – One of the Living

About the song

“One of the Living” by Tina Turner is a dynamic and electrifying track that perfectly encapsulates the fierce energy and resilience of one of music’s most iconic performers. Released in 1985, the song is part of the soundtrack for the post-apocalyptic film Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome, in which Tina Turner also starred as the unforgettable character Aunty Entity. This high-octane number not only highlights Tina’s unmatched vocal power but also captures the spirit of survival and determination that defined both her career and the themes of the movie.

Release and Context

The song was released as a single in October 1985, following the success of “We Don’t Need Another Hero (Thunderdome)”, another standout track from the same film. Written by Holly Knight and produced by Mike Chapman, “One of the Living” is a powerhouse anthem that blends rock, pop, and a touch of industrial sounds, reflecting the dystopian atmosphere of the movie. The track went on to win a Grammy Award for Best Female Rock Vocal Performance in 1986, solidifying its place as a significant achievement in Tina Turner’s illustrious career.

Musical Style and Meaning

Musically, “One of the Living” is a gritty and driving song, propelled by sharp guitar riffs, pulsating synths, and Tina’s unmistakable voice, which brims with both raw emotion and defiance. The lyrics echo themes of perseverance, survival, and strength—qualities that Tina embodied both on and off stage. Lines like “You’re one of the living / If you’re willing to fight” reflect the struggle and triumph inherent in facing adversity, resonating deeply with audiences.

The song’s connection to the Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome film underscores its themes of resilience in a chaotic world. In the movie, Tina’s character, Aunty Entity, is a leader navigating a harsh and desolate environment, making this song an apt complement to her role. The fierce energy of the track mirrors the character’s determination to thrive against all odds.

Cultural Impact

At the time of its release, Tina Turner was experiencing a remarkable career resurgence, having made a triumphant comeback with her 1984 album Private Dancer. “One of the Living” continued to showcase her versatility as an artist and her ability to remain relevant in a rapidly changing music landscape. Its success further cemented her status as a global superstar who could effortlessly bridge the worlds of music and film.

The song also contributed to the broader appeal of the Mad Max franchise, bringing Tina Turner’s magnetic presence to the series and introducing a rock-driven energy to the film’s soundscape. It resonated with fans of the movie while standing on its own as a testament to Tina’s artistry.

Legacy

Decades after its release, “One of the Living” remains a testament to Tina Turner’s indomitable spirit and ability to captivate audiences with her powerful performances. The song’s themes of resilience and survival still resonate, making it a timeless anthem for those who face challenges with courage and tenacity. It stands as a highlight in Tina’s discography and a memorable contribution to one of the most iconic film soundtracks of the 1980s. For fans of both Tina Turner and the Mad Max franchise, this track is an unforgettable piece of music history.

Video

Lyrics

In the desert sun, every step that you take could be the final one
And in the burning heat, hanging on the edge of destruction
No, you can’t stop the pain of your children crying out in your head
Oh, they always said that the living would envy the dead

So now you’re going to shoot bullets of fire
Don’t wanna fight, but sometimes you’ve got to
You’re some sole survivor
And there’s just one thing you’ve got to know
You’ve got ten more thousand miles to go

Because you’re one of the living
And if we can’t stick together (can’t stick together)
Oh, you’re one of the living
Who’s going to make it tonight

Walk tall, cool, collected but savage
Walk tall, bruised, sensual, ravaged
It’s every man for himself, every woman, every child
A new breed, ferocious and wild

And all they want to do is shoot bullets of fire
They wanna fight and sometimes you’ve got to
You’re some sole survivor
And there’s just one thing you’ve got to know
You’ve got ten more thousand years to go

Because you’re one of the living
And if we can’t stick together (can’t stick together)
Oh, you’re one of the living
Who’s going to make it tonight

Shoot bullets of fire
They wanna fight and sometimes you’ve got to
You’re some sole survivor
And there’s just one thing you’ve got to know
You’ve got ten more thousand years to go

Because you’re one of the living
And if we can’t stick together (can’t stick together)
Oh, you’re one of the living
Who’s going to make it tonight (who’s going to make it tonight)

You’re one of the living
And if we can’t stick together (can’t stick together)
Oh, you’re one of the living
Who’s going to make it tonight

One of the living