I'm still holding on

Chris Rea · The Blue Cafe [1998]

How many times

Have I been here before?

Like a worn away piece of the night

Waiting for the dawn

Daylight breaks

And the dream is gone

Leaving me to stay

But I'm still holding on

Yeah I'll keep holding on

I used to think I knew

Just exactly what I took

You move in, fast and hard

And you make your own luck

Daylight breaks

And the dream is gone

Leaving me to stay

But I'm still holding on

I see it better now

Smell the tears upon this tracks

It's a long long way before it's over

And what you give out

Is what you get back

The easy way out

It will bite you hard someday

You see me smile and learn

I find a better way

I'm still holding on

I'm Still Holding On

Chris Rea's 'I'm Still Holding On' serves as a poignant centerpiece on his 1998 album, The Blue Cafe. Released during a period where Rea refined his signature blend of rock and new wave, the track exemplifies his ability to weave melancholic melodies with driving rhythms. The song reflects the enduring emotional core often found in his discography, capturing themes of persistence and longing without relying on explicit lyrical exposition. As part of The Blue Cafe, it contributes to a cohesive body of work that showcases Rea's mastery of atmospheric production and guitar-driven arrangements. This recording stands as a testament to his capacity to evoke deep sentiment through music alone, resonating with listeners who appreciate the nuanced interplay between his vocal delivery and the band's sonic texture.