“Strong Enough” by Cher is a fierce, disco-infused empowerment anthem released in February 1999 as the second single from her blockbuster album Believe. While the title track “Believe” was a global phenomenon, “Strong Enough” carved out its own legacy as a bold, retro-inspired statement of independence.
Musically, the song channels the glamour and groove of 1970s disco, with a pulsing beat, sweeping strings, and a catchy, strutting rhythm. It’s a departure from the futuristic, Auto-Tuned sound of “Believe”, instead leaning into classic dancefloor vibes with a modern polish. Cher’s powerful vocals cut through with confidence and clarity, delivering every line with the poise of someone who’s been through it all and come out stronger.
Lyrically, it’s all about walking away from a toxic relationship and reclaiming your strength: “I’m strong enough to live without you / Strong enough and I quit crying.” It became a rallying cry for self-empowerment, especially among female and LGBTQ+ audiences, who embraced its fearless message and dancefloor-ready sound.
“Strong Enough” was a hit across Europe, reaching the Top 10 in multiple countries, including the UK and Germany. In the U.S., it topped the Billboard’s Dance Club Songs chart and became a staple in Cher’s live shows and a fan favorite. Over time, it’s been embraced as a queer anthem and remains a go-to track for anyone needing a reminder of their inner resilience.