St Elmo's Fire Man In Motion Piano
Do you remember the power ballad that played during the closing credits of the 1985 movie St. Elmo's Fire? The song "Man In Motion" was an instant hit, earning John Parr a Grammy nomination for Best Instrumental Composition. But did you know that the song was written specifically for the film, and was inspired by the true story of a paraplegic athlete who accomplished the impossible?
The Real-Life "Man in Motion": Rick Hansen
Rick Hansen was a young athlete with a promising career ahead of him when he was involved in a car accident that left him paralyzed from the waist down. Rather than give up on his dreams, Hansen turned to wheelchair sports and became a world-renowned athlete in his own right.
In 1985, Hansen set out on an incredible journey to raise awareness for spinal cord injuries and raise funds for research. He embarked on a 40,000 km journey across 34 countries, wheeling himself across the globe in what became known as the "Man in Motion" tour.
The Story Behind the Song
The producers of St. Elmo's Fire knew that Hansen's story was one that needed to be told, and they commissioned Canadian musician David Foster to write the theme song for the film. Foster enlisted the help of John Parr, and together they wrote "Man in Motion" as a tribute to Hansen's incredible journey.
The song's powerful lyrics and driving beat perfectly capture the determination and strength of character that Hansen displayed during his tour. The chorus, "I'll be the man in motion, all I need is a pair of wheels," speaks to the spirit of perseverance and the unbreakable human will.
The Legacy of "Man in Motion"
The success of "Man in Motion" was immediate and long-lasting. The song reached #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and stayed there for two consecutive weeks. It also helped to raise awareness for spinal cord injuries and the need for further research into treatments and cures.
Over the years, the song has become an anthem for people facing challenges and adversity, and has been covered by numerous artists, including Toto, Tesla, and The Barenaked Ladies. Its legacy continues to inspire and uplift people around the world.
Conclusion
The story behind "Man in Motion" is one of resilience, determination, and the human spirit. John Parr's powerful lyrics and David Foster's stirring music combine to create a song that speaks to the very core of what it means to overcome obstacles and achieve greatness.
Whether you're a fan of 80s music, a sports enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates an inspiring story, "Man in Motion" is a song that is sure to move you.
