American Jesus, Bad Religion’s iconic song released in 1993, establishes itself as a punk rock anthem that questions and challenges the cultural and religious narratives of American society. From its powerful guitar riff to its provocative lyrics , this song has resonated across multiple generations, becoming a symbol of rebellion and social criticism. In this article, we will explore the lyrics of American Jesus, offering a faithful translation into Spanish and an in-depth analysis of the themes it addresses. Bad Religion’s ability to mix catchy melodies with incisive reflections on consumerism, faith, and identity has solidified the band’s status in rock history. Join us as we unravel the layers of meaning of this iconic piece, which remains relevant in today’s context.
Lyrics and translation into Spanish
American Jesus
I don’t need to be a global citizen
Because I’m blessed by nationality
I’m a member of a growing populace
We enforce our popularity
There are things that seem to pull us under
And there are things that drag us down
But there’s a power and a vital presence
That’s lurking all around
We’ve got the American Jesus
See him on the interstate
We’ve got the American Jesus
He helped build the president’s estate
I feel sorry for the earth’s population
‘cuz so few live in the USA
At least the foreigners can copy our morality
They can visit but they cannot stay
Only precious few can garner our prosperity
It makes us walk with renewed confidence
We’ve got a place to go when we die
And the architect resides right here
We’ve got the American Jesus
Bolstering national faith
We’ve got the American Jesus
Overwhelming millions every day
He’s the farmer’s barren fields (in God)
The force the army wields (we trust)
The expressions in the faces of the starving millions (because he’s one of us)
The power up above (break down)
He’s the fuel that drives the clan (cave in)
He’s the motive and the conscience of the murderer (he can redeem your sins)
He’s the preacher on TV (strong heart)
The false sincerity (clear mind)
The form letters that’s written by the big computers (and infinitely kind)
He’s the nuclear bombs (you lose)
The kids with no moms (we win)
And I’m fearful that he’s inside me (he is our champion!)
We’ve got the American Jesus
See him on the interstate. (We’ve got the American Jesus)
We’ve got the American Jesus
Exercising his authority!
We’ve got the American Jesus
Bolstering national faith, (We’ve got the American Jesus)
We’ve got the American Jesus
Overwhelming millions every day
One Nation Under God
Translation of American Jesus
No necesito ser un ciudadano del mundo
Porque estoy bendecido por mi nacionalidad
Soy miembro de una población creciente
Hacemos cumplir nuestra popularidad
Hay cosas que parecen hundirnos
Y hay cosas que nos arrastran hacia abajo
Pero hay un poder y una presencia vital
Que acecha a nuestro alrededor
Tenemos al Jesús americano
Lo vemos en la autopista
Tenemos al Jesús americano
Él ayudó a construir la mansión del presidente
Siento pena por la población de la tierra
Porque tan pocos viven en EE. UU.
Al menos los extranjeros pueden copiar nuestra moralidad
Pueden visitar, pero no pueden quedarse
Solo unos pocos privilegiados pueden obtener nuestra prosperidad
Eso nos hace caminar con renovada confianza
Tenemos un lugar al que ir cuando morimos
Y el arquitecto reside aquí
Tenemos al Jesús americano
Fortaleciendo la fe nacional
Tenemos al Jesús americano
Desbordando millones cada día
Él es los campos yermos del granjero (en Dios)
La fuerza que emplea el ejército (en quien confiamos)
Las expresiones en los rostros de los millones hambrientos (porque él es uno de nosotros)
El poder arriba (derriba)
Él es el combustible que impulsa el clan (cave in)
Él es el motivo y la conciencia del asesino (él puede redimir tus pecados)
Él es el predicador en la televisión (corazón fuerte)
La falsa sinceridad (mente clara)
Las cartas formales que son escritas por las grandes computadoras (y de infinita bondad)
Él es las bombas nucleares (tú pierdes)
Los niños sin madres (nosotros ganamos)
Y tengo miedo de que esté dentro de mí (¡él es nuestro campeón!)
Tenemos al Jesús americano
Lo vemos en la autopista. (Tenemos al Jesús americano)
Tenemos al Jesús americano
Ejercitando su autoridad!
Tenemos al Jesús americano
Fortaleciendo la fe nacional, (Tenemos al Jesús americano)
Tenemos al Jesús americano
Desbordando millones cada día
Una Nación Bajo Dios
Analysis of the song American Jesus by Bad Religion
Production and musical style
The song “American Jesus” was composed by vocalist Greg Graffin and guitarist Brett Gurewitz , founding members of Bad Religion. Production was handled by the band themselves in collaboration with sound engineer Matt Hyde . Musically, the song is characterized by its potent blend of melodic punk rock , with instrumentation that includes hard-hitting electric guitars, a prominent bass guitar, and fast, energetic drums. The pace is fast-paced, creating an atmosphere of urgency that complements the social criticism present in the lyrics. Bad Religion also introduces innovations in the song’s structure, using tempo changes and vocal harmonies that reinforce the underlying message.
Meaning of the lyrics
The message of “ American Jesus ” addresses the dissonance between religion and national identity, particularly how the figure of Jesus has been used and reinterpreted in the American context. Through their verses, the band criticizes the hypocrisy that arises when faith is mixed with nationalism , suggesting that the image of an “American Jesus” is a result of a cultural construct rather than a spiritual reality. This critique is made evident by mentioning how religion can be manipulated to justify acts of violence and oppression , which contrasts with the true values of Christianity.
Furthermore, the lyrics also raise questions about the authenticity of this religious identity, challenging listeners to reflect on their own relationship to faith and society . The use of an ironic tone allows Bad Religion to underline the tragedy of a culture that chooses to view Jesus as a symbol of national pride and superiority, rather than a model of love and compassion. This approach invites a deep analysis of how religious symbolism can be distorted and, in turn, lead to divisions rather than unions.
Ultimately, the song becomes a call to conscience , urging people to reconsider the role that religion plays in politics and culture within the United States. Through an infectious and provocative sound, Bad Religion manages to communicate a sharp and thought-provoking critique , turning “American Jesus” into a punk classic that resonates with multiple generations of listeners concerned with the intersection of religion and cultural identity.
Comparison with other songs of the decade
Bad Religion’s “American Jesus” is a punk anthem that captures the disillusionment and skepticism of the 1990s. The song is set against a backdrop of other great pieces of the era, such as Nirvana’s “Smells Like Teen Spirit” and R.E.M.’s “Losing My Religion”, also dealt with the search for identity and social critique. Unlike R.E.M.’s melancholic introspection or Nirvana’s explosive energy, Bad Religion opts for a direct and provocative approach, questioning the superficiality of American culture and religious hypocrisy. “American Jesus” stands out for its speed and incisive lyrics , presenting itself as a cry of protest that resonates in a decade marked by disillusionment, but also by a strong desire for change, placing itself alongside other emblematic works that defined the era.
Impact and legacy of American Jesus
The song “American Jesus”, released in 1993, has had a significant impact on music and pop culture , becoming an anthem of social and political criticism. Its lyrics address themes such as nationalism, religion, and hypocrisy, resonating with diverse generations. This theme has inspired many punk rock bands and has influenced the development of alternative music, promoting a dialogue about American identity. Today, the song remains relevant, especially in a context where social and political tensions continue to be prominent. Its critical message invites reflection on the role of religion in society and culture , maintaining its appeal and power as a piece of cultural resistance that transcends its original era.
Personal opinion
As a lover of 90s music, Bad Religion’s “ American Jesus ” has always resonated deeply with me. This song encapsulates the perfect blend of punk rock and social commentary, reflecting the cultural tensions of the time. Listening to it, I am swept up in a wave of emotions ranging from nostalgia to deep reflection . The band’s defiant lyrics and raw energy elicit intense admiration for their courage in tackling sensitive issues like religion and American identity. Plus, the catchy melody invites you to sing along at the top of your lungs , making it an inspirational anthem that remains relevant today. To me, “American Jesus” is a timeless masterpiece that deserves to be celebrated.
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