Stronger
Bravas
Empowerment and Resilience: The Anthem of Bravas' 'Stronger'
Bravas' song 'Stronger' is a powerful anthem that delves into the struggles and resilience of women, particularly in the context of Puerto Rico. The lyrics begin by highlighting the early sexualization and prejudice faced by women from a young age. The artist reflects on becoming a feminist as a response to encountering machismo and expresses frustration with the patriarchal system. This sets the stage for a narrative of empowerment and the necessity for women to be tough, strong, and better to avoid being knocked down by societal pressures.
The song continues by addressing the misleading narratives fed to young girls, emphasizing that they are often told they are weak and should wait for a hero, rather than being encouraged to understand their own strength and potential. This false narrative is contrasted with the harsh reality that women face as they grow up, including the cruelty and lack of mercy from those who seek to exploit them. The lyrics poignantly describe the emotional and physical toll of such exploitation, yet also highlight the realization that a woman's worth is determined by herself, not by any man.
As the song progresses, it calls for unity among women, stressing that together they can make noise and be heard. The repeated refrain 'We gotta be tough, girl / We gotta be strong, girl / We gotta be better, girl / Or they will knock us down' serves as a rallying cry for resilience and solidarity. The song also acknowledges the shared suffering of women through experiences of violence and abuse, but it ultimately conveys a message of collective strength and the importance of fighting for equality and justice. 'Stronger' is not just a song; it is a declaration of empowerment and a call to action for women everywhere to stand together and assert their worth.