Album: This Is The Life (2007)
Charted: 48
Play Video

Songfacts®:

  • The inspiration for this song came from Scottish singer Amy MacDonald's admiration for the actor Jake Gyllenhaal. On BBC Berkshire she explained: "Well I was just thinking and I thought everyone has somebody that they idolize - be it an actor or a sports player or a singer or whatnot. But I think in general that people should value their own dreams and their own achievements, even if we don't do things as great as being in a Hollywood blockbuster. Just be proud of what we achieve ourselves."
  • The Glaswegian singer/ songwriter admitted on her internet blog that she never really liked this song much herself. She wrote on her MySpace: "So I've thrown myself right back in at the deep end and have been rewarded with a lovely chart position of 48! It's more embarrassing than anything else. If I'm honest I really don't like 'LA' all that much and don't think it represents the album one bit." Since then her UK chart placing improved by 7 places after being played on both the UK's top viewed soaps, EastEnders and Coronation Street. The song was more successful in her native Scotland, peaking at #5.

Comments

Be the first to comment...

Editor's Picks

Ian Anderson of Jethro Tull

Ian Anderson of Jethro TullSongwriter Interviews

The flautist frontman talks about touring with Led Zeppelin, his contribution to "Hotel California", and how he may have done the first MTV Unplugged.

Carol Kaye

Carol KayeSongwriter Interviews

A top session musician, Carol played on hundreds of hits by The Beach Boys, The Monkees, Frank Sinatra and many others.

Al Jourgensen of Ministry

Al Jourgensen of MinistrySongwriter Interviews

In the name of song explanation, Al talks about scoring heroin for William Burroughs, and that's not even the most shocking story in this one.

Trans Soul Rebels: Songs About Transgenderism

Trans Soul Rebels: Songs About TransgenderismSong Writing

A history of songs dealing with transgender issues, featuring Pink Floyd, David Bowie, Morrissey and Green Day.

Linda Perry

Linda PerrySongwriter Interviews

Songwriting Hall of Famer Linda Perry talks about her songs "What's Up" and "Beautiful," her songwriting process, and her move into film music.

Which Songs are About Drugs?

Which Songs are About Drugs?Fact or Fiction

"25 or 6 to 4" to "Semi-Charmed Life" - see if you can spot the songs that are really about drugs.