America

Most people keep saying that it’s impossible to get heard if you’re not supported by a major record label. Well, I disagree with that, because in 2006 Razorlight showed us that all indie bands can really get heard, thanks to their hit song America. And here are just a few facts to prove that: after its release, America peaked at #1 in the UK, #6 in Ireland, #9 in the Netherlands, #10 in New Zealand and was in the Top 50 of most European countries. Well, I do agree that these guys were fortunate enough to have the chance to work in London, because the London music scene is undoubtedly one of the most influential scenes in whole Britain and although it may sound a bit naïve – if they like you in London, chances are high that the international music market will open its doors to you. Razorlight also did have the support of Mercury Records when America got released, but this was only a result from their hard work.

Since then, Razorlight’s success has inspired many independent bands and artists from all over the world and an increasing number of people wanted to learn how to play America by Razorlight, so that they can include it in their setlists and play it live on gigs. America is one of those nice, yet easy guitar songs that simply sound good when you play them live. A beginner will find playing it a great learning experience having in mind all those interesting guitar chords that guitarist Björn Ågren uses throughout the song. Inexperienced singers may find it challenging to sing it at first, having to hit A above middle C as the highest note, although with enough practice baritones can easily reach that and in general Johnny Borrell’s vocal lines aren’t too hard in this one.

The song itself is heavily influenced by the classic British sound. It tells about a man leading a sedentary lifestyle (just like most people do nowadays), who’s bored by the American Culture. The music video for America features actual footage from Razorlight’s American Tour as well as photos of some of the most famous American landmarks, such as The Statue of Liberty and The Empire State Building. America earned Razorlight a Brit award nomination for Best Song and secured the band gigs on renowned venues and events like The Wembley Stadium and The Reading Festival.

Unfortunately, nothing is heard about Razorlight lately, although they keep producing new material. Probably the success of America raised the bars too high both for the band and for its fans, but I’m sure that if these guys continue to work hard, we’ll be soon listening to their brand new hit single.

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Each Song Includes Step By Step Videos For Lead & Rhythm Guitar

Learn to play this complete song and Jam with our live band. You can choose to learn and play either the Rhythm Guitar or Lead Guitar and Jam with us. Each song has separate step by step tuition videos to take you through every single part of the song.

Plus all our songs have accompanying downloads for full Song Structure, Chord Diagrams and Tab for lead solos. And all the teaching and Jam session videos can either be viewed online, or downloaded to your PC.

Related posts:

1. Addicted To Love
2. Paranoid
3. Like A Rolling Stone
4. Don’t Believe A Word
5. Run

Tags: America, Andy Partridge, BandJammer, Guitar Songs, Learn Guitar, Razorlight