Born in the U.S.A. Lyrics – Bruce Springsteen
Born in the U.S.A. Lyrics
[Verse 1: Bruce Springsteen]
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 covering up, now
[Chorus: Bruce Springsteen]
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
[Verse 2: Bruce Springsteen]
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
[Chorus: Bruce Springsteen]
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.
[Verse 3: Bruce Springsteen]
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”
[Verse 4: Bruce Springsteen]
I had a brother at Khe Sanh
Fighting 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
[Verse 5: Bruce Springsteen]
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
[Chorus: Bruce Springsteen]
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
Born In The U.S.A. Lyrics Meaning
The lyrics of "Born in the U.S.A." by Bruce Springsteen is a song that delves into the complex realities faced by working-class Americans, particularly those who served in the military during the Vietnam War era. While the title may suggest patriotism, the lyrics actually reveal a deeper critique of the government's treatment of its citizens, especially veterans, and the disillusionment that arises from broken promises and societal neglect.
[Verse 1]
The song begins with Springsteen reflecting on his origins, being born in a place that seems devoid of hope or opportunity—a "dead man's town." He describes the harshness of life from the moment of birth, likening it to being struck down and forced to endure suffering. The imagery of a beaten dog suggests a life filled with struggle and pain, where one is constantly trying to hide their wounds and scars just to survive.
[Chorus]
The chorus is a repetitive proclamation of being "Born in the U.S.A.," which on the surface appears to be a declaration of pride in one's nationality. However, given the context of the verses, it can also be interpreted as an ironic commentary on the struggles faced by Americans within their own country.
[Verse 2]
Springsteen recounts being caught up in a local conflict and being conscripted into military service. He highlights the irony of being sent to fight in a foreign war, where he's instructed to kill those perceived as enemies ("the yellow man"), reflecting the racial and political tensions of the Vietnam War era.
[Chorus]
The chorus repeats, emphasizing the theme of being "Born in the U.S.A.," juxtaposed with the harsh realities faced by those who served in the military.
[Verse 3]
Returning from war, the protagonist finds himself disillusioned and unable to find meaningful employment. Despite his sacrifices, he's met with indifference and bureaucracy when seeking assistance from the Veterans Affairs office. The encounter with the V.A. man underscores the neglect and mistreatment experienced by many returning veterans.
[Verse 4]
Springsteen introduces a personal narrative, mentioning a brother who fought in the Vietnam War at the infamous Khe Sanh, facing the horrors of combat. The reference to "Viet Cong" and "Saigon" contextualizes the brother's experiences within the broader conflict, highlighting the human cost of war.
[Verse 5]
The protagonist finds himself trapped in a cycle of despair, symbolized by the industrial landscape of the refinery and penitentiary. Despite being "born in the U.S.A.," he feels like a nomad with no place to call home, haunted by the memories of war and societal indifference.
[Final Chorus]
The song concludes with a repetition of the chorus, but with an added twist. The protagonist declares himself a "long gone Daddy" and a "cool rocking Daddy," perhaps suggesting a sense of defiance or resilience in the face of adversity, despite the harsh realities depicted throughout the song.
This is the end of "Born In The U.S.A. Song Lyrics" by Bruce Springsteen. If you discover any mistake in the song text, please send the correct lyrics by using the Contact Us form.
Official Music Video
Cast & Crew
- Artist / Band
- Producer(s)
- Bruce Springsteen, Jon Landau, Chuck Plotkin & Little Steven
- Writter(s)
- Bruce Springsteen
- Released On
- June 4, 1984
Born in the U.S.A. Songs
Bruce Springsteen Albums
FAQs & Knowledge
Who is the singer of "Born in the U.S.A." song?
"Born in the U.S.A." song is sung by Bruce Springsteen.
Who is the lyrics writer of "Born in the U.S.A." song?
"Born in the U.S.A." song lyrics written by Bruce Springsteen.
Who is the music producer of "Born in the U.S.A." song?
"Born in the U.S.A." song music composed & produced by Bruce Springsteen, Jon Landau, Chuck Plotkin & Little Steven.
When was "Born in the U.S.A." song released?
"Born in the U.S.A." song was released on June 4, 1984.