American Tune

Paul Simon

About American Tune

"American Tune" is a song by the American singer-songwriter Paul Simon. It was the third single from his third studio album, There Goes Rhymin' Simon (1973), released on Columbia Records. The song, a meditation on the American experience, is based on the melody of the hymn "O Sacred Head, Now Wounded". The song reached number 35 on the Billboard Hot 100.


Year:
2015
3:47
117 

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The way you move
It's got quality

Come on baby, let's go downtown
Little girl, you sure look good to me
The way you move
It's got quality

Come on baby, now don't be shy
Step in the light so I can see
The way you move
It's got quality

I want to know
Are you my beautiful young boy
Or just another love
Passing through my life
I need to know
Will you be my sorrow and my joy
And maybe one day soon
Will I be your wife

Come on baby, let's rock some more
I want to spend my salary
The way you move
It's got quality

Come on baby, let's go downtown
Little girl, you sure look good to me
The way you move
It's got quality

I want to know 
Are you my beautiful young boy
Or just another love
Passing through my life
I need to know
Will you be my sorrow and my joy
And maybe one day soon
Will I be your wife
Quiero saber
Quiero saber
Nadie nunca sabe
En la vida

The way you move
It's got quality

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Paul Simon

Paul Frederic Simon (born October 13, 1941) is an award-winning musician whose talents in composing, performing, and vocal harmony placed him at the forefront of the singer-songwriters on an international scale. Simon's fame, influence and commercial success began as part of the duo Simon & Garfunkel, formed in 1964 with musical partner Art Garfunkel. Simon wrote most of the pair's songs, including three that reached No. 1 on the U.S. singles charts: "The Sounds of Silence," "Mrs. Robinson," and "Bridge Over Troubled Water." The duo split up in 1970 at the height of their popularity, and Simon began a successful solo career, recording three highly acclaimed albums over the next five years. In 1986, he released Graceland, an album inspired by South African… more »

6 fans

Written by: DEREK WALCOTT, PAUL SIMON

Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


12 facts about this song

Song Creation
"American Tune" was written and performed by Paul Simon. It is one of his most popular songs and showcases his prowess as a songwriter.
Album Debut
The song debuted on Simon's fourth studio album, "There Goes Rhymin' Simon," which was released in 1973.
Inspiration Source
The melody of "American Tune" was inspired by a hymn composed by Johann Sebastian Bach called "St. Matthew Passion."
Political Undertone
The song is often recognized for its implicit political commentary, with lyrics that subtly critique the American Dream concept.
Popularity
"American Tune" has been covered by numerous artists including Willie Nelson and Eva Cassidy, testifying to its enduring popularity.
Chart Success
"American Tune" peaked at number 35 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the USA, indicating a significant level of commercial success.
Grammy Nomination
The album "There Goes Rhymin' Simon" that featured "American Tune" was nominated for Album of the Year at the Grammys in 1974.
Recurring Theme
The song deals with themes of disillusionment and the loss of innocence, which are common in Simon’s other works as well. Despite the solemnity of these themes, it also paints a picture of hope.
Mournful Tone
Unlike many of Simon's songs, "American Tune" has a particularly mournful tone, reflecting a degree of disillusionment with the social and political climate of the time.
Live Performances
The song has been performed live many times by Simon since its release and is considered one of his most iconic songs.
Critical Acclaim
Simon's songwriting skills in "American Tune" have been widely praised by critics for touching upon the American condition in an affecting and soulful way.
Cultural Significance
Over the years, "American Tune" has become an integral part of American folk music and culture, with the song often played on the 4th of July and Thanksgiving.

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    American Tune

    3M
    12,194     320

    Top Hot 100 Songs 1974

    Billboard #35


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