“Eye of the Tiger” is a song by the American rock band Survivor, released in 1982. It was written by the band’s keyboardist Jim Peterik and guitarist Frankie Sullivan. It was written as the theme song for the 1982 film Rocky III, American sports drama film written, directed by, and starring Sylvester Stallone. It was in May 1982 released that year as a single from Survivor’s third album, Eye of the Tiger.
Musically, “Eye of the Tiger” is a powerful rock anthem with a driving guitar riff, punchy drums, and energetic vocals. The song’s bold, aggressive sound perfectly matches its theme of perseverance and determination, making it an ideal fit for the training montages in Rocky III.
Lyrically, the song is about fighting against the odds, staying focused, and pushing through challenges. The phrase “eye of the tiger” symbolizes a fighter’s intense focus and will to win, capturing the spirit of the underdog rising to the occasion.
“Eye of the Tiger” became a huge commercial success. It topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart for six weeks and also reached No. 1 in several other countries, including the UK, Canada and Australia. At the 25th Annual Grammy Awards, “Eye of the Tiger” won Best Rock Performance by Duo or Group with Vocal and was nominated for Song of the Year. At the 55th Academy Awards, it was nominated for Best Original Song.
“Eye of the Tiger” remains one of Survivor’s most famous songs and has become an enduring symbol of motivation and resilience. Its iconic riff and powerful message continue to make it a popular choice for sports events, workouts, and moments of inspiration.