Keep inside me, the desire
To jump and reach the sky
And stars along my way
And help to give me strength
To make the most of each day
I am ready, help me be all I can be
I am ready, help guide me, and keep me free
I am a huge fan of the Backstreet Boys. Back in 2005, they released their 'comeback' album Never Gone after an absence of almost five years. I had very high expectations from them, and they didn't disappoint. Right from the first single: the power ballad 'Incomplete', and the almost alternate-rock 'Climbing The Walls' to mid-tempo pop/rock numbers like 'I Still', 'Just Want You to Know' and slower tracks like 'Never Gone', 'Safest Place To Hide', I loved every single track, and listen to the whole album from top to bottom to this very day. The album was their experiment with an organic, live instruments only sound.
But one song in particular is most special to me, and is actually my favorite song of theirs of all time. Named 'Siberia', it is the darkest song they have ever done. Its a song about heart-break, but rather than the cliched pleading tone of similar songs, it echoes a sentiment of acceptance of the inevitable end. The lyrics in the bridge even have an accusatory tone to them, something very un-Backstreet. The song is written & produced by Max Martin. The music itself is also equally haunting and makes up the somber mood of the song.
Love the movie of the same name. Based on true events surrounding the early days of Nelson Mandela's presidency. He has cited this poem as his biggest inspiration.
Out of the night that covers me, Black as the pit from pole to pole, I thank whatever gods may be For my unconquerable soul. In the fell clutch of circumstance I have not winced nor cried aloud. Under the bludgeonings of chance My head is bloody, but unbowed. Beyond this place of wrath and tears Looms but the Horror of the shade, And yet the menace of the years Finds and shall find me unafraid. It matters not how strait the gate, How charged with punishments the scroll, I am the master of my fate: I am the captain of my soul.
