Young Americans (song)

"Young Americans" is a song written and performed by David Bowie, released in 1975 as the lead single and title track of his album Young Americans. The song marked a significant shift in Bowie's musical style, moving away from glam rock and embracing a sound heavily influenced by soul, R&B, and funk, often referred to as "plastic soul."

The lyrics of "Young Americans" touch upon themes of American culture, including disillusionment, consumerism, and the complexities of relationships, presented through a fragmented and impressionistic narrative. The song namechecks historical and cultural figures such as Richard Nixon and The Beatles. The overall tone is a mixture of observation and critique, reflecting Bowie's fascination with American society.

The song's production features a prominent saxophone solo by David Sanborn and backing vocals from Ava Cherry, Luther Vandross, and Robin Clark. It was a commercial success, reaching the top 40 in both the United States and the United Kingdom, solidifying Bowie's presence in the American music market. "Young Americans" remains a popular and influential song in Bowie's discography, recognized for its innovative sound and insightful commentary on American culture during the mid-1970s.