David Bowie - I'm Afraid of Americans

"I'm Afraid of Americans" was released by David Bowie in 1997 as part of his album "Earthling." The song reflects Bowie's experiences and observations of American culture during his travels. This period in his career was marked by a fascination with electronic music and jungle rhythms, which influenced the sound of the track.

The song was co-written with Brian Eno, a long-time collaborator of Bowie's, and it showcases a blend of rock and electronic elements. Its lyrics convey a sense of paranoia and discomfort associated with American society, capturing the cultural tensions of the time.

The track gained renewed prominence with the release of a remix by Nine Inch Nails' Trent Reznor, who also appeared in the accompanying music video. This version, released in 1998, further amplified the song's reach and introduced it to a new audience, cementing its place in both Bowie's and Reznor's discographies.

Over the years, "I'm Afraid of Americans" has been interpreted as a commentary on the darker sides of American culture, including consumerism, nationalism, and identity conflicts. Its themes remain relevant, engaging listeners with its critical perspective on globalization and cultural exchange. The song is often seen as one of Bowie's successful explorations of contemporary issues through his music.

David Bowie - I'm Afraid of Americans Lyrics

Johnny's in America, no tax at the wheel
Ah-ah-ah, ah-ah, ah-ah, ah-ah-ah
No-one needs anyone, they don't even just pretend
Ah-ah-ah, ah-ah, ah-ah
Johnny's in America

I'm afraid of Americans
I'm afraid of the world
I'm afraid I can't help it
I'm afraid I can't
I'm afraid of Americans
I'm afraid of the world
I'm afraid I can't help it
I'm afraid I can't
I'm afraid of Americans

Johnny's in America
Ah-ah-ah, ah-ah, ah-ah, ah-ah-ah
Johnny wants a brain, Johnny wants to suck on a coke
Johnny wants a woman, Johnny wants to think of a joke
Ah-ah-ah, ah-ah, ah-ah, ah-ah-ah
Johnny's in America (ah-ah-ah, ah-ah, ah-ah, ah-ah-ah)

I'm afraid of Americans
I'm afraid of the world
I'm afraid I can't help it
I'm afraid I can't
I'm afraid of Americans
I'm afraid of the world
I'm afraid I can't help it
I'm afraid I can't
I'm afraid of Americans

Johnny's in America, Johnny looks up at the stars
Johnny combs his hair and Johnny wants pussy in cars
Johnny's in America (ah-ah-ah, ah-ah, ah-ah, ah-ah-ah)
Johnny's in America (ah-ah-ah, ah-ah, ah-ah, ah-ah-ah)

I'm afraid of Americans
I'm afraid of the world
I'm afraid I can't help it
I'm afraid I can't
I'm afraid of Americans
I'm afraid of the world
I'm afraid I can't help it
I'm afraid I can't
I'm afraid of Americans

God is an American
God is an American
(Ah-ah-ah, ah-ah, ah-ah, ah-ah-ah)

I'm afraid of Americans
I'm afraid of the world
I'm afraid I can't help it
I'm afraid I can't
I'm afraid of Americans
I'm afraid of the world
I'm afraid I can't help it
I'm afraid I can't

Yeah I'm afraid of Americans
I'm afraid of the world
I'm afraid I can't help it
I'm afraid I can't
I'm afraid of Americans

Johnny's an American
Johnny's an American
Johnny's an American
Johnny's an American
Johnny's an American