“Breakfast in America” by Supertramp
Like many an Englishman during his day, Roger Hodgson had dreams of coming to America in his youth. Being a musician himself, he was inspired by the Beatles who famously came Stateside in 1964. And subsequently, this track serves as a hodgepodge of thoughts where the singer is imagining what the United States would be like. In other words, not every notion put forth is easily discernable. For instance, it can be argued that, like the Beatles, he is imagining himself arriving stateside as a music star. And overall it can be said that this track is based on the popular perception of the States being the land of opportunity, even if Supertramp deals with such a notion somewhat sarcastically.
Indeed it can be further argued that the main sentiment behind the lyrics isn’t so much centered on the vocalist idealizing America as it is his discontent with his current life in the UK, as personified by his less-than-satisfactory girlfriend. And in his mind, getting across the pond will give him access to the type of lifestyle that he truly dreams of. And the title of the track itself, which is never actually mentioned in the lyrics, is apparently symbolic of the same idea.
Facts about “Breakfast in America”
This track was written by Supertramp’s Roger Hodgson and Rick Davies. It is Hodgson who is recognized as the primary and original writer. And he wrote this song (and others) on what he described as a “wonderful pump organ” which Rogers “found in this old lady’s house”.
Indeed this track features an array of instruments that aren’t usually used on pop songs, such as a tuba, clarinet and trombone.
The entire Supertramp crew is credited with producing “Breakfast in America”, doing so alongside Peter Henderson. And an interesting bit of info concerning Henderson is that he participated on this project right after getting married the day prior.
In terms of chart success, this song most notably reached number 9 on the famed UK Singles Chart. It also appeared on America’s Hot 100 and charted in nearly 10 countries overall, including South Africa.
Additionally “Breakfast in America” has been certified silver in Britain.
This classic is the title track from Supertramp’s sixth album. This was also their breakthrough album so to speak and their most-successful project overall. For the record, this album also produced one of Supertramp’s most famous songs – “The Logical Song“.
Being released back in the days before music videos became standard, on 29 March 1979 by A&M Records, “Breakfast in America” doesn’t have an official music video.
Notable Usage
“Breakfast in America” has been sampled by a handful of artists in the first 40 years since its release. Amongst them include the following:
- Gym Class Heroes in 2005 (Cupid’s Chokehold)
- Drake in 2009 (Stunt Hard)
Did “Breakfast in America” win a Grammy?
The song itself didn’t win an award despite it being so big. However, its album won a couple of Grammys. The album was so successful it sold over 4 million units in America alone. It is so far the band’s most successful album.
What genre is “Breakfast in America”?
It is a progressive rock song.
