Laura Branigan, an American singer who rose to prominence in the 1980s, left an indelible mark on the music industry. Her most iconic song, “Gloria,” released in 1982, enjoyed an incredible run on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100, charting for an astounding 36 weeks. It not only reached the number one spot in Australia and Canada but also became a defining anthem of her era. Interestingly, “Gloria” was originally penned by Italian singer-songwriters Giancarlo Bigazzi and Umberto Tozzi.

Branigan’s musical portfolio extended beyond this hit, encompassing tracks like “Self Control,” which secured the number one position in Canada and Germany. Other notable singles included “Solitaire,” “How Am I Supposed to Live Without You,” “Ti amo,” “The Power of Love,” and “Shattered Glass.” Furthermore, she contributed her talents to the soundtracks of iconic films like Flashdance (which earned Grammy and Academy Awards) and Ghostbusters.

As the late 1980s arrived, Branigan’s chart presence began to diminish. Her final two studio albums, “Laura Branigan” (1990) and “Over My Heart” (1993), received limited attention, leading her to withdraw from the public eye for much of the 1990s. Nevertheless, she made a comeback in the early 2000s, notably portraying Janis Joplin in the off-Broadway production of “Love, Janis.” Tragically, her return was short-lived, as she passed away in 2004 due to an undiagnosed cerebral aneurysm.

In recent times, Laura Branigan’s “Gloria” experienced a resurgence in popularity, becoming the unofficial victory song for the NHL’s St. Louis Blues during their remarkable Stanley Cup victory in 2019. This unexpected revival of interest has solidified the song’s status as an enduring anthem for both the team and the city of St. Louis.

Laura Branigan’s musical legacy lives on, and her songs continue to resonate with fans worldwide.