Analysis of the Song Try Everything by Shakira: A Semiotic Study Based on Ferdinand de Saussure

Abstract

In contemporary society, songs are not only a form of entertainment but also a medium to convey cultural, moral, and educational values. The song “Try Everything” by Shakira, featured in Disney’s Zootopia (2016), communicates messages of perseverance, courage, and learning from mistakes, making it a relevant object for semiotic analysis. This study aims to examine how the relationship between signifiers and signifieds in the lyrics constructs meanings of resilience, self-motivation, and character development. A qualitative descriptive approach with Ferdinand de Saussure’s semiotic theory was employed. The official lyrics document was analyzed through a process of identifying signifiers, determining signifieds, and grouping them into connotative themes. Data validity was ensured through document triangulation and peer discussions. The findings show that the lyrics convey three main themes: failure as part of learning, persistence to rise again, and courage to take risks. Linguistic signs such as “I messed up tonight, I lost another fight” and “I always get up now to see what’s next” represent human experiences of failure and the effort to improve oneself. In conclusion, the song constructs a coherent system of meaning that promotes optimism, resilience, and self-reflection. Practically, these findings suggest that song lyrics can be used in educational contexts to foster positive character traits, including perseverance, confidence, and courage to face challenges.