50 Songs That Explain America
From Sinatra to SZA, Appalachian folk to Detroit funk, a journey through the music that showed one British critic this country’s soul
In America, music has been a vital force in shaping my understanding of the nation. As a young English teenager, I first experienced this connection while touring the United States, captivated by the contrast of big beats and pulverizing guitars. From New Orleans to Boston, I sought out music that resonated with me, feeling that American music held an essential duality—a blend of spare beats and crushing guitars.
Living in the country for 30 years, I still grapple with the question: Is there an American self within me? American music has helped me comprehend the complexity of this nation, but the depth of understanding lies in the songs themselves.
The list I present here consists of 50 songs, each offering a unique perspective on America. It is not meant to be canonical or representational, but rather intuitive selections that reveal aspects of the nation through their lyrics and melodies. These songs expose the unconscious thoughts, emotions, and experiences of the American people, transcending cultural boundaries and unearthing buried narratives.
Among these 50 songs is "Two Tickets to Paradise" by Eddie Money. The track evokes a sense of longing and escapism, common in American culture. Eddie Money's gritty voice and the build-up of the song capture the essence of a Gatsby-like chase, driving home the idea of chasing after dreams and opportunities. This longing is not only political but also existential, as it speaks to the desire to break free from the constraints of one's life and surroundings.
Another song that illuminates America's spirit is "We Found Love" by Rihanna. Despite being produced by a Scottish DJ and performed by a pop star born in Barbados, the song resonates deeply with American audiences due to its universal message of finding love in unexpected and often hopeless situations. The song's success story, staying at No. 1 for 10 weeks, highlights the sophisticated taste of American society in embracing such wistful and uplifting emotions.
The juxtaposition of longing and happiness in this song showcases the duality of the American experience, where hope transcends despair.
Written by urgent.news from The Atlantic's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
