About the song
Get Ready to Groove: James Brown’s “Living in America”
Before you hit play and start dancing, let’s take a quick look at the electrifying anthem, “Living in America” by the one and only James Brown. This isn’t just another song; it’s a high-energy, soul-infused track that captured the spirit of the 1980s and cemented its place in music history.
Released in 1985 as part of the soundtrack for the movie Rocky IV, “Living in America” is pure, unadulterated James Brown magic. The song’s driving beat, infectious horns, and Brown’s signature vocals create an irresistible force that’ll have you moving from the first note. It’s more than just a catchy tune; it’s a musical snapshot of the era, filled with energy and optimism.
But the impact of “Living in America” goes beyond its catchy rhythm. It was a massive hit, reaching the Top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and showcasing Brown’s enduring relevance in the music scene. This wasn’t just a commercial success; it was an affirmation of his unique talent.
Accolades and Recognition:
What truly sets this track apart are the accolades it received. “Living in America” earned James Brown a Grammy Award for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance in 1987. This prestigious award solidified its status as not just a popular hit, but also a work of artistic merit. The song resonated deeply with both audiences and critics, proving Brown’s ability to consistently innovate and deliver outstanding music.
In addition to the Grammy, the song was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Song, highlighting its impact beyond the R&B genre. This cross-genre recognition shows the song’s wide appeal and its ability to transcend typical musical boundaries.
“Living in America” isn’t just a song; it’s a testament to the incredible legacy of James Brown. It’s a track that’s guaranteed to uplift your mood and get you moving. So, crank up the volume, press play, and get ready to experience the unforgettable energy of “Living in America.” It’s a journey you won’t want to miss. Now, enjoy the video!
Video
Lyrics
Yeah, uh
Get up, ow
Ow
Knock it out this
Woo
Super highways, coast to coast
Easy to get anywhere
On the transcontinental overload
Just slide behind the wheel
How does it feel
When there’s no destination that’s too far?
And somewhere on the way you might find out who you are, woo
Living in America (ow)
Eye to eye, station to station
Living in America
Hand in hand, across the nation
Living in America
Got to have a celebration
Rock my soul, huh, ow, huh
Smokestack, fatback
Many miles of railroad track
All night radio, keep on runnin’
Through your rock ‘n’ roll soul
All night diners keep you awake
On black coffee and a hard roll, woo
You might have to walk a fine line (say it)
You might take the hard line
But everybody’s workin’ overtime
Living in America (huh)
Eye to eye, station to station
Living in America
Hand in hand, across the nation
Living in America
Yeah, got to have a celebration, woo
I (I) live in America
Say it loud
I live in America
Wait a minute
You may not be lookin’ for the promised land
But you might find it anyway
Under one of those old familiar names
Like New Orleans (New Orleans), Detroit City (Detroit City)
Dallas, uh (Dallas), Pittsburgh, PA, (Pittsburgh, PA)
New York City (New York City), Kansas City (Kansas City)
Atlanta, woo (Atlanta), Chicago and L.A.
Living in America
Hit me
Living in America, yeah
I walked in and out
Living in America
I live in America
Say it loud, It’ll make you proud, uh
Said, I live in America
Hey, I know what it means, ah
Living in America
Eddie Murphy, eat your heart out
To the bridge, ay
Living in America
Hit me
I said now, eye to eye
Station to station
Living in America
Oh, so nice with your bad self (uh)
Living in America
Whoa, I feel good