About the song
“America” is an incredibly powerful and iconic patriotic anthem written and performed by Neil Diamond. It was originally released on the soundtrack of the 1980 film The Jazz Singer, in which Diamond also starred. The song celebrates the immigrant experience and the enduring promise of the United States as a land of opportunity and freedom for those seeking a new life. It became a massive hit, reaching number 8 on the Billboard Hot 100, and has since become one of the most beloved and frequently played songs in the U.S., particularly at national celebrations and ceremonies.
The sound and style: “America” is a grand, anthemic pop-rock song with strong folk and orchestral influences, building to a powerful, almost gospel-like crescendo. It’s characterized by its sweeping melodies, a driving beat, and Diamond’s passionate, soaring vocals. The sound is uplifting, inspiring, and full of a sense of shared journey and triumph, designed to evoke deep emotional and patriotic feelings.
Musical features:
- Neil Diamond’s Passionate Vocals: Diamond’s vocal performance is absolutely central to the song’s impact. He sings with immense passion, conviction, and a powerful, resonant voice that conveys both the struggle and the ultimate hope of the immigrant journey. His delivery is incredibly earnest and heartfelt.
- Driving Rhythm Section: The song features a strong, propulsive beat from the drums and a steady, foundational bassline that gives it an undeniable sense of momentum and forward motion.
- Orchestral Sweep: Lush, soaring string arrangements and triumphant brass fanfares are prominent, especially in the choruses and towards the song’s climax. These orchestral elements add grandeur and emotional weight.
- Acoustic Guitar/Mandolin Texture: Despite the grand scale, there are often underlying acoustic guitar or mandolin elements that lend a folk-like authenticity to the song, particularly in the verses, grounding the immigrant narrative.
- Call-and-Response (implied): The structure and the chorus often feel like a communal rallying cry, even if sung by one voice.
- Dynamic Buildup: The song builds effectively from quieter, more narrative verses to powerful, anthemic choruses, creating a sense of journey and eventual triumph.
- Memorable Melody: The melody is incredibly strong, singable, and emotionally resonant, making the chorus instantly recognizable and uplifting.
It’s majestic, inspiring, and deeply emotional, a powerful ode to the immigrant experience and the American dream.
Lyrical themes and atmosphere:
“On the boats and on the planes / They’re coming to America / Never looking back again / They’re coming to America”
The lyrics vividly describe the journey of immigrants to America, leaving behind their pasts and seeking a new future filled with hope and opportunity. It paints a picture of diverse people from various backgrounds uniting in their shared dream. The song specifically references “Mother and child reunion,” “The sun comin’ up,” and “Freedom’s light,” evoking powerful imagery of new beginnings and liberation. The atmosphere is one of profound hope, aspiration, and a deep appreciation for the ideals of freedom and possibility. It celebrates the melting pot aspect of the nation and the courage of those who seek a better life.
Themes:
- The Immigrant Experience: The central theme of leaving one’s homeland for a new life.
- Hope and Opportunity: The promise of a better future and the pursuit of the “American Dream.”
- Freedom and Liberty: The fundamental values of the United States.
- Unity in Diversity: People from different backgrounds coming together.
- Patriotism and National Pride: A strong sense of love and appreciation for America.
- New Beginnings: The idea of starting fresh and building a new life.
Unlike political anthems, “America” focuses on the human stories and aspirations behind the national identity.
Legacy and impact:
- Patriotic Anthem: Widely adopted as one of the most recognizable patriotic songs in the U.S., frequently played at sporting events, national holidays (like the Fourth of July), and naturalization ceremonies.
- Iconic Film Moment: Its usage in The Jazz Singer (particularly the climactic scene) is legendary and helped cement its status.
- Enduring Popularity: Remains a staple on adult contemporary and classic hits radio, beloved for its uplifting message.
- Neil Diamond’s Signature Song: While he has many hits, “America” stands as one of his most powerful and frequently associated songs, especially for its universal appeal.
- Cultural Reference: Its lyrics and melody are instantly recognizable and evoke strong emotional responses.
“America” is more than just a song; it’s a powerful narrative and a timeless celebration of the immigrant spirit and the promise of a nation.
Final thoughts: “America” is an incredibly stirring and emotionally resonant song. Neil Diamond’s passionate vocal delivery, combined with the sweeping orchestral arrangements and driving rhythm, creates an anthem that truly captures the spirit of hope and new beginnings. It’s a powerful narrative of the immigrant journey, filled with a sense of triumph and the enduring belief in a better future. Whether you consider it a patriotic song or simply a hymn to aspiration, its message and grand musicality are universally uplifting and have made it an undeniable classic.
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Lyrics
FarWe’ve been traveling farWithout a homeBut not without a starFreeOnly want to be freeWe huddle closeHang on to a dreamOn the boats and on the planesThey’re coming to AmericaNever looking back againThey’re coming to AmericaHomeDon’t it seem so far awayOh, we’re traveling light todayIn the eye of the stormIn the eye of the stormHomeTo a new and a shiny placeMake our bed and we’ll say our graceFreedom’s light burning warmFreedom’s light burning warmEverywhere around the worldThey’re coming to AmericaEvery time that flag’s unfurledThey’re coming to AmericaGot a dream to take them thereThey’re coming to AmericaGot a dream they’ve come to shareThey’re coming to AmericaThey’re coming to AmericaThey’re coming to AmericaThey’re coming to AmericaThey’re coming to AmericaToday, todayToday, today, todayMy country ’tis of thee (today)Sweet land of liberty (today)Of thee I sing (today)Of thee I singToday, today, todayToday, today, (today, today)