Pat Benatar’s song gains new significance post 9/11
Pat Benatar’s hit song “Invincible” celebrates its 40th anniversary this year, having been the theme song for The Legend of Billie Jean and the lead single from her Seven the Hard Way album. However, the song gained new significance for Benatar 16 years after its release in the wake of the tragic events of September 11, 2001.
On that day, Benatar and her band were scheduled to perform at an outdoor venue in California’s Napa Valley when the terrorist attacks occurred in New York City and Washington, D.C. Feeling overwhelmed by the news, especially as a New York native who had seen the World Trade Center being built, she was uncertain about going on stage. However, the promoter insisted that they perform, recognizing the need for people to come together during such a difficult time.
Uncertain about the appropriateness of their song choice, Benatar made a last-minute decision to open the night with a rendition of “America the Beautiful” before transitioning into “Invincible.” The performance took on a whole new meaning that night, with Benatar noting that she sang it with more intensity and emotion than ever before. The crowd reacted with overwhelming emotion, many sobbing and holding up signs that read “God Bless America.” Benatar described the experience as a powerful moment of unity and resilience.
The aftermath of that night inspired Benatar to write “Christmas in America,” a song born out of an audience member’s concern about how they would celebrate the holiday season amidst the tragedy. Benatar’s creative response was a reflection of resilience and the ability to move forward in the face of adversity, capturing the spirit of perseverance and hope.
Reflecting on the enduring impact of “Invincible,” Benatar mentioned that the song’s message of empowerment continues to resonate, especially during challenging times. As she performs it now, the song takes on a more militant tone, emphasizing strength, resilience, and the importance of standing up in the face of obstacles. Despite not having written the song herself, Benatar ensured that its sentiment aligned with her personal values, making it her own in the process.
As “Invincible” marks four decades since its release, Benatar and Neil Giraldo remain active in their respective endeavors. They recently published their first children’s book and have several more projects in the works. Giraldo teased the idea of a new album with Benatar, promising something unexpected and different from their previous work. With a legacy of platinum-selling albums and iconic hits, Benatar’s enduring impact on music and her ability to inspire hope and resilience in others continue to shine through in her work.