The Tracks — American Life, Track 01
American Life
Do I have to change my name?
At a Glance
Title
American Life
Record
American Life (2003) | Track 01
Single
Lead single | April 2003
Writers
Madonna | Mirwais
Producers
Madonna | Mirwais
Video
Directed by Jonas Åkerlund
Chart peaks
UK No. 2 | US No. 37
Acoustic guitar, electronics and a rap about lattes and lawyers: “American Life” asked what the American dream was really worth.
The Song
Written and produced with Mirwais, it questions materialism and fame, ending with a now-famous rap section.
The Video
Jonas Åkerlund’s original video, set at a military-themed fashion show, was withdrawn by Madonna before release as the Iraq War began. A simpler version, with her performing in front of flags, replaced it.
On Stage
It was performed on the Re-Invention World Tour in 2004.
LISTEN NEXT
Keep listening — headphones on, lights low.
