gloria gaynor i am what i am

"I Am What I Am" is a song originally from the Broadway musical La Cage aux Folles , composed by Jerry Herman. Gloria Gaynor released a disco version of the song in 1983, produced by Joel Diamond, which became one of her best-known hits. Her version was a club hit in America and reached the Top 40 in Europe, becoming established as a global gay anthem. The song's lyrics express a bold declaration of self-identity and pride, with lines like "I am what I am / I am my own special creation." It promotes independence, self-acceptance, and the celebration of individuality. The refrain emphasizes that living with pride and authenticity is what makes life worthwhile. Gloria Gaynor's version helped popularize the song as an anthem of empowerment and diversity, and it remains a powerful message of personal strength and self-worth.