Bruce Springsteen – Born in the U.S.A. (1984)

About the song

“Born in the U.S.A.” by Bruce Springsteen is one of the most iconic and powerful songs in the history of American rock music. Released on June 4, 1984, it serves as the title track for Springsteen’s seventh studio album, which remains one of his most commercially successful and critically acclaimed works. The song was written by Springsteen himself and is widely recognized for its robust sound and poignant lyrics, reflecting on the American experience with a critical yet hopeful perspective.

The album “Born in the U.S.A.” marked a significant moment in Springsteen’s career, featuring a blend of rock and pop elements that showcased his versatility as an artist. The title track, with its anthemic chorus and driving rhythm, quickly became a cultural phenomenon. Despite its upbeat and energetic sound, the song’s lyrics delve into the struggles and disillusionment faced by Vietnam War veterans upon returning home, highlighting the challenges of reintegration into American society.

“Born in the U.S.A.” achieved remarkable success on the charts. It peaked at number 9 on the Billboard Hot 100 and became a global hit, reaching the top ten in several countries, including the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia. The album itself produced seven top-10 singles, a record at the time, and solidified Springsteen’s status as a major international star.

The song’s powerful message is often misunderstood due to its rousing chorus and patriotic imagery. However, a closer listen reveals a deeply critical view of American policies and the treatment of veterans. Springsteen’s raw vocal delivery and the song’s driving beat underscore the tension between patriotic pride and critical reflection.

The album “Born in the U.S.A.” received widespread acclaim and commercial success, selling over 30 million copies worldwide. It remains one of the best-selling albums of all time. The song and the album both received numerous accolades and continue to be celebrated for their impact on music and culture.

“Born in the U.S.A.” remains a staple in Springsteen’s live performances, often eliciting strong emotional responses from audiences. Its legacy endures not just as a rock anthem, but as a poignant commentary on the American dream and its complexities. Bruce Springsteen’s “Born in the U.S.A.” stands as a testament to his ability to blend powerful storytelling with compelling music, resonating with listeners across generations.

Video

Lyrics

Born down in a dead man’s town
The first kick I took was when I hit the ground
You end up like a dog that’s been beat too much
‘Til you spend half your life just coverin’ up

Born in the U.S.A
I was born in the U.S.A
I was born in the U.S.A
Born in the U.S.A

Got in a little hometown jam
So they put a rifle in my hand
Sent me off to a foreign land
To go and kill the yellow man

Born in the U.S.A
I was born in the U.S.A
I was born in the U.S.A
I was born in the U.S.A

Come back home to the refinery
Hiring man says, “Son if it was up to me”
Went down to see my V.A. man
He said, “Son, don’t you understand”

I had a brother at Khe Sanh
Fighting off the Viet Cong
They’re still there, he’s all gone
He had a woman he loved in Saigon
I got a picture of him in her arms now

Down in the shadow of the penitentiary
Out by the gas fires of the refinery
I’m ten years burning down the road
Nowhere to run ain’t got nowhere to go

Born in the U.S.A
I was born in the U.S.A. now
Born in the U.S.A
I’m a long gone Daddy in the U.S.A. now
Born in the U.S.A
Born in the U.S.A
Born in the U.S.A
I’m a cool rockin’ Daddy in the U.S.A. now