John Mellencamp

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
They come from the cities and they come from the smaller towns
Beat up cars with guitars and drummers going crack, boom, bam

[Chorus]
R.O.C.K. in the U.S.A
R.O.C.K. in the U.S.A
R.O.C.K. in the U.S.A., yeah, yeah
Rocking in the U.S.A

[Verse 2]
Well, they said goodbye to their families, said goodbye to their friends
With pipe dreams in their heads and very little money in their hands
Some are black and some are white
They ain't too proud to sleep on your floor tonight
With the blind faith of Jesus, you know that they just might
Rocking in the U.S.A
Hey

[Verse 3]
Voices from nowhere and voices from the larger town
Filled our head full of dreams and turned our world upside down
And there was Frankie Lymon, Bobby Fuller, Mitch Ryder
(They were rocking)
Jackie Wilson, Shangri-las, Young Rascals
(They were rocking)
Spotlight on Martha Reeves, let's don't forget James Brown
[Chorus]
Rocking in the U.S.A
Hey
R.O.C.K. in the U.S.A
R.O.C.K. in the U.S.A
R.O.C.K. in the U.S.A
R.O.C.K. in the U.S.A
R.O.C.K. in the U.S.A
R.O.C.K. in the U.S.A
R.O.C.K. in the U.S.A
R.O.C.K. in the U.S.A
R.O.C.K. in the U.S.A
R.O.C.K. in the U.S.AEmbed

John Mellencamp is one of the most influential rock musicians of all time. With a career spanning over four decades, he has produced numerous hit albums and singles that continue to captivate audiences to this day. Among his most popular songs is “R.O.C.K. in the U.S.A. (A Salute to 60's Rock),” which was released in 1985. The song quickly became a chart-topping hit and remains a favorite of rock ‘n’ roll enthusiasts everywhere.

About R.O.C.K. in the U.S.A. (A Salute to 60's Rock)

“R.O.C.K. in the U.S.A. (A Salute to 60's Rock)” was the third single from John Mellencamp's album “Scarecrow,” which was released in 1985. The song is an upbeat tribute to the heyday of rock ‘n’ roll, specifically the 1960s. Mellencamp was initially hesitant to include the song on the album, as the other songs were more serious and somber. Still, due to the encouragement of his manager, he ultimately decided to include it and was glad he did.

The song starts with a pulsing drum beat that sets the tone for the entire track. A distinct guitar riff follows, complete with a catchy melody that serves as the song's backbone. Mellencamp's vocals are energetic and lively, capturing the spirit of the era that the song pays homage to. Lyrics such as “Ain't nothin' but a heartache, swallowin' up all your pride” and “Singin' I love rock ‘n’ roll, so put another dime in the jukebox, baby” capture the essence of rock ‘n’ roll and the impact it had on American culture.

“R.O.C.K. in the U.S.A. (A Salute to 60's Rock)” was a commercial success for Mellencamp. The song peaked at #6 on the Billboard Mainstream Rock Tracks chart in 1985 and #2 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1986, cementing its place as one of Mellencamp's most successful songs. Fans were drawn to the song's infectious melody and upbeat lyrics, and it quickly became a staple of classic rock radio stations.

What makes “R.O.C.K. in the U.S.A. (A Salute to 60's Rock)” such a unique and compelling song is its ability to capture the spirit of a particular time and place. The 1960s were a period of significant social and cultural change in America, and rock ‘n’ roll played a crucial role in this transformation. Mellencamp understands the power of this music and pays tribute to it through his unforgettable song.

Whether you grew up listening to rock ‘n’ roll in the 1960s or discovered this genre of music later in life, “R.O.C.K. in the U.S.A. (A Salute to 60's Rock)” is a song that will transport you back to a time of innocence, optimism, and passion. Through its catchy melody, enthusiastic vocals, and uplifting lyrics, the song celebrates the spirit of rock ‘n’ roll and its essential role in American culture. It is a timeless classic that continues to inspire and delight music lovers of all ages.

In the end, “R.O.C.K. in the U.S.A. (A Salute to 60's Rock)” shows Mellencamp's exceptional songwriting ability and musical talent. The song has stood the test of time and remains relevant today, almost four decades since its initial release. Its upbeat and infectious rhythm, coupled with its inspiring lyrics, ensure that it will be a favorite of rock ‘n’ roll fans for generations to come.

If you are a fan of rock ‘n’ roll, you owe it to yourself to listen to “R.O.C.K. in the U.S.A. (A Salute to 60's Rock).” It is a classic track that will transport you back to a time when music had the power to change the world and bring people together.

• Release Date: January 1986
• Artist: John Mellencamp