Bruce Springsteen performs “Born in the U.S.A.” in Los Angeles, California, 1984

About the song

In the summer of 1984, Bruce Springsteen unleashed a sonic tidal wave that would forever alter the course of his career and the landscape of American rock music. Born in the U.S.A., his seventh studio album, was a cultural phenomenon that transcended generations and genres, cementing Springsteen’s status as a national icon.

Emerging from the gritty realism of his earlier work, Born in the U.S.A. offered a more polished and accessible sound, infused with the infectious rhythms and soaring melodies of 1980s pop. Yet, beneath its glossy exterior, the album delved deep into themes of working-class struggles, disillusionment, and the American dream’s elusive promise.

Springsteen’s lyrics, as always, were both poignant and prophetic. They captured the raw experiences of ordinary people, from the factory floor to the unemployment line, with a stark honesty that resonated with millions. Songs like “I’m on Fire,” “Glory Days,” and the title track itself, became anthems for a generation grappling with the complexities of life in a rapidly changing world.

The album’s commercial success was unprecedented. It topped the charts in nine countries, sold over 30 million copies worldwide, and spawned a string of hit singles. Springsteen’s iconic image, emblazoned on the cover against the backdrop of the American flag, became a symbol of hope and resilience for countless fans.

While the album’s reception was largely positive, some critics questioned its departure from the more introspective and raw sound of Springsteen’s earlier work. However, over time, Born in the U.S.A. has solidified its place as a timeless masterpiece, a testament to Springsteen’s enduring artistry and his ability to connect with audiences on a profound level.

Video

Lyrics

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

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. now

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
Hirin’ man says, “Son, if it was up to me”
Went down to see my V.A. man
He said, “Son, don’t you understand,” now

Oh yeah
No, no
No, no, no

I had a brother at Khe Sanh
Fightin’ off them 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 burnin’ 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 rocking Daddy in the U.S.A. now