Meaning of the Song “This Is It” by Kenny Loggins

What does “This Is It” by Kenny Loggins Mean?

“This Is It” by Kenny Loggins is a powerful anthem of determination and taking control of one’s life, addressing themes of resilience, self-empowerment, and facing difficult decisions head-on. Released in 1979, the song was co-written by Loggins and Michael McDonald, with McDonald also contributing to the backing vocals. While the song’s smooth, polished sound fits comfortably within the yacht rock genre, its lyrics carry a message of urgency and personal strength, urging listeners to seize the moment and make critical choices when life’s pivotal moments arise.

The phrase “This Is It” serves as a declaration that the moment of action has arrived, and the narrator or listener must make a decisive move. It speaks to moments of pressure when there is no more room for delay or hesitation—where the time to act is now. The song’s meaning can be interpreted as both personal and universal, making it applicable to anyone facing a life-altering decision or challenge.

The Message of Taking Control

At its core, “This Is It” is about taking control of one’s destiny and refusing to passively accept difficult circumstances. The narrator urges themselves or someone else to step up and face the challenge, whether it’s a relationship issue, a career decision, or a personal battle. In the song, the speaker acknowledges that the stakes are high, but emphasizes that the power to change the outcome lies within the individual.

The lyrics, “There’ve been times in your life, you’ve been wonderin’ why / Still, somehow you believe you’ll always survive,” reflect a sense of struggle and doubt that everyone experiences at some point. However, instead of succumbing to fear or indecision, the song encourages perseverance and confidence. It’s a call to rise to the occasion and take control of one’s fate, knowing that hesitation can lead to missed opportunities or regret.

Inspiration from a Personal Story

Interestingly, the song was inspired by a personal story from Kenny Loggins’ life. At the time, his father was seriously ill and faced a critical decision about undergoing surgery. Loggins wrote “This Is It” as a way to motivate his father to fight for his life and make a strong choice in the face of a potentially life-threatening situation. While the song’s lyrics don’t explicitly reference this specific event, the underlying message of finding inner strength in a time of crisis resonates throughout.

This personal backstory adds emotional depth to the song, transforming it from a general anthem of determination to something deeply personal and heartfelt. The universal themes of resilience, combined with the real-life inspiration behind it, make “This Is It” a poignant and powerful piece that many listeners can relate to in their own way.

Musical Composition and Yacht Rock Appeal

Musically, “This Is It” stands out as a signature example of the smooth, polished yacht rock sound that was popular in the late 1970s and early 1980s. The song’s upbeat tempo, catchy melody, and layered harmonies create a sense of energy and movement that perfectly matches its message of action and determination. Michael McDonald’s distinct vocals provide a rich harmony to Loggins’ lead, adding depth and texture to the track.

The instrumentation, which includes a blend of electric guitars, keyboards, and bass, is both sophisticated and accessible. The song’s arrangement gives it a sense of urgency without feeling rushed, allowing listeners to absorb the message while enjoying the smooth, melodic flow of the music. The production is clean and polished, characteristic of the yacht rock genre, and showcases both Loggins’ and McDonald’s musical talents.

Empowerment and Self-Belief

“This Is It” is ultimately a song about self-empowerment and believing in one’s ability to make the right decisions when it matters most. It acknowledges that there will be times of doubt and hardship, but it emphasizes that in those moments, it’s important to take a stand and choose a path forward. The repeated refrain of “This is it” reinforces the idea that the time for action has arrived, and there is no turning back.

The song’s message of empowerment is universal, making it applicable to various life situations. Whether someone is facing a personal challenge, a difficult relationship, or a career crossroads, the song speaks to the importance of taking responsibility for one’s choices and finding the inner strength to move forward. It encourages listeners to push through their fears and doubts, trusting that they have the ability to handle whatever comes their way.

Cultural Impact and Legacy

“This Is It” became one of Kenny Loggins’ biggest hits, reaching number 11 on the Billboard Hot 100 and winning the Grammy Award for Best Pop Vocal Performance, Male in 1981. Its success helped solidify Loggins’ reputation as a prominent figure in the yacht rock and soft rock scenes, and it remains one of his most recognizable songs.

The song’s message of resilience and determination has made it a favorite among fans facing personal challenges, and it continues to resonate with new listeners. Over the years, “This Is It” has been used in motivational contexts, such as in sports events, personal development seminars, and even in media related to overcoming adversity. Its timeless message of empowerment ensures that it remains relevant to audiences long after its release.

Lyrical Interpretation and Personal Reflection

The lyrics of “This Is It” invite multiple interpretations, depending on the listener’s own life experiences. For some, the song may represent the courage needed to make a life-changing decision, while for others, it could symbolize the determination to keep pushing forward through difficult circumstances. The ambiguity of the song’s specific subject matter allows it to be applied to a wide range of personal situations, making it a versatile anthem for empowerment and self-belief.

Conclusion

“This Is It” by Kenny Loggins is a timeless anthem of determination, resilience, and self-empowerment. Its message of taking control of one’s life and making decisive choices has resonated with listeners for decades, making it one of Loggins’ most enduring and impactful songs. Through its powerful lyrics, smooth musical composition, and universal themes, “This Is It” continues to inspire people to face their challenges head-on and take charge of their destinies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main theme of “This Is It” by Kenny Loggins?

The main theme of “This Is It” is personal empowerment and the urgency to make important life decisions. The song encourages taking action and seizing the moment during critical times.

What does “This Is It” mean in the song?

“This Is It” serves as a declaration that the time for action has arrived. It emphasizes the importance of making a decisive move when faced with a life-altering choice.

What inspired Kenny Loggins to write “This Is It”?

The song was inspired by a personal experience when Kenny Loggins’ father faced a serious health decision. Loggins wrote it as a message of encouragement and resilience for his father.

Is “This Is It” about facing challenges?

Yes, the song is about facing challenges head-on and not shying away from difficult situations. It emphasizes the importance of determination and inner strength in overcoming obstacles.

How does the song convey a sense of urgency?

The repeated refrain “This Is It” creates a feeling of urgency, signaling that the time to act is now. The music also builds intensity to support the message of immediate action.

What emotional tone does “This Is It” have?

The song has an empowering and motivational tone. It encourages self-belief and confidence, pushing the listener to take control of their circumstances.

What role does Michael McDonald play in “This Is It”?

Michael McDonald co-wrote the song with Kenny Loggins and contributed his signature vocal harmonies. His rich voice adds depth and emotional texture to the song.

How does the song relate to self-empowerment?

“This Is It” is a call for self-empowerment, urging listeners to trust their instincts and take charge of their lives. It highlights the importance of making bold decisions with confidence.

What genre does “This Is It” belong to?

“This Is It” is considered a yacht rock or soft rock song, with its smooth production and sophisticated instrumentation. The genre complements the song’s message with a polished, melodic sound.

Why has “This Is It” remained popular over the years?

The song’s universal message of resilience and empowerment continues to resonate with listeners. Its timeless theme of taking control during pivotal moments makes it relevant to multiple generations.