So American

Album: In the Mountain in the Cloud (2011)
Play Video

Songfacts®:

  • During the 2008 American elections, Portugal. The Man frontman John Gourley was in Germany and found himself discussing politics with a German. The conversation made Gourley realize that his new friend knew far more about America and its political scene than he did about Germany's. That gave him the idea for the song. "I've been to Germany nine or 10 times and know so little, if not absolutely nothing, about the country's politics," Gourley told Spinner. "It's just so funny because the way we [Americans] are is pretty relaxed, like, 'Do what you want. I'm not going to be a part of this.' And I thought it's so American to just let things go and say whatever and just let it happen."

Comments

Be the first to comment...

Editor's Picks

Francis Rossi of Status Quo

Francis Rossi of Status QuoSongwriter Interviews

Doubt led to drive for Francis, who still isn't sure why one of Status Quo's biggest hits is so beloved.

Rosanne Cash

Rosanne CashSongwriter Interviews

Rosanne talks about the journey that inspired her songs on her album The River & the Thread, including a stop at the Tallahatchie Bridge.

Adam Duritz of Counting Crows

Adam Duritz of Counting CrowsSongwriter Interviews

"Mr. Jones" took on new meaning when the song about a misguided view of fame made Adam famous.

Shawn Mullins

Shawn MullinsSongwriter Interviews

"Lullaby" singer Shawn Mullins on "Beautiful Wreck," beating the Devil, and his writing credit on the Zac Brown Band song "Toes."

Billy Joe Shaver

Billy Joe ShaverSongwriter Interviews

The outlaw country icon talks about the spiritual element of his songwriting and his Bob Dylan mention.

Meshell Ndegeocello

Meshell NdegeocelloSongwriter Interviews

Meshell Ndegeocello talks about recording "Wild Night" with John Mellencamp, and explains why she shied away from the spotlight.