Written and produced by Freddie Perren and Dino Fekaris, and then recorded by Gloria Gaynor (as the B-side to a cover of “Substitute” by Willie H. Wilson), “I Will Survive” was released on October 23, 1978.
A signature song for Gloria Gaynor, “I Will Survive” has earned a reputation for being a celebration of female empowerment, and a powerful anthem for the LGBTQ+ community, especially during the height of the HIV/AIDS epidemic in the 1980s. The enduring legacy of “I Will Survive” is also evident in the number of diverse artists who have covered it, including the alternative rock band Cake, and the ‘Queen of Soul’ Aretha Franklin on her 2014 album, Aretha Franklin Sings the Great Diva Classics.
To mark the 45th anniversary of the original release of “I Will Survive” by Gloria Gaynor, treat yourself to a free digital copy of the sheet music, arranged for solo piano, and based on a performance by Nazareno Aversa. Originally sold for $12.95, you can get it for free throughout March 2023. Grab your copy today!
Here Are Some Fun Facts About “I Will Survive” by Gloria Gaynor:
• “I Will Survive” was originally released as a B-side, to accompany a cover of “Substitute” by Willie H. Wilson. However, after the former significantly outperformed the latter, Polydor Records re-released it as a standalone A-side.
• “I Will Survive” was recorded near the end of a three-hour long recording session, with 30 minutes left to go. Since the song was originally intended as a B-side, it was recorded under the assumption that few people would actually hear it. As a result the backing track was mostly improvised.
• In the 2021 edition of Rolling Stone’s 500 Greatest Songs of All Time, “I Will Survive” was placed at number 251. This was a significant jump from the 2010 edition of the list, where it reached number 492.
• This transcription of “I Will Survive” is written in the key of A-minor, played at 80 Beats Per Minute (BPM).
This song was transcribed for piano by Tunescribers team member Wei F.
Exclusive Discount Code for Custom Backing Tracks
Want to learn a new song with an accurate, high-quality instrumental backing track? Now you can for less at Tunescribers! During March 2023, when you order a custom backing track valued at over $100, type in the discount code BT30 to receive 30% off your order. 
Our backing tracks are arranged and performed by highly skilled musicians, and you get a high-quality MP3 recording which you can play on any modern device. You’ll receive your backing track within a week of placing your order, and we also offer a 48-hour rush service by special request.
This offer is valid throughout March 2023.