Dear America (A Breakup Song)
Challenge: PERSONAL SOUNDTRACKLiner Notes
This song is a breakup letter. As a very proud Canadian (who was originally from England - hence my name), I am seething with rage at Trump and his minions, who think it's smart or funny to literally threaten to destroy our country by crippling us economically. But I also know he doesn't represent America. It doesn't matter that he won the election and the popular vote; Americans didn't actually vote for him to threaten and demean the US's most reliable partner and ally. It feels like one of the more important songs I have written. With this in mind, I will forgo any royalties if any other artists out there would want to record their own version. Doesn't matter if you're a big deal, or a nobody, like me. Doesn't matter what country you are from, because I would hope there are people from all over that this resonates with. If you like and agree with the message, let's share it. Just let me know. #breakupsong #acoustic #strings #singersongwriter #OhCanada #personalsoundtrack
Lyrics
Dear America I hate to leave this way It really has been something But now I feel betrayed You made me feel so special Before you pulled the rug away I guess I had been dreaming But now I am awake
Dear America That shining city on the hill Pretending to be perfect Oh, it was such a thrill I love you and I hate you But that is nothing new It's always been conflicted In our little rendezvous
Dear America You were never what you seem There was always something hidden Always something mean And yes it was exciting But maybe just too much You're the one who's breaking up So, will you really hold a grudge
No more meeting up in Memphis No more lovin’ in LA No more doing it in Denver Or in San Jose No more crazy in Chicago Or Pittsburgh PA
Dear America What has he done to you I have to keep on searching For the America I knew I know it's in there somewhere Don't wanna say goodbye I hate to see you falling For this sleazy shakedown guy
Dear America Don't wanna say goodbye
© 2025
Comments
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Man, this resonates with my conflicted relationship with America too. It's where I live! I'm sorry he is making life difficult for you guys. Stay strong, as you have already been demonstrating that!!
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You can really feel the seething (and entirely justified) anger behind your words here. The idea of doing this as a break up song is a great idea.
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This is brilliant! Great production, vocals, backing track, mix. I'm American, but with dozens of Canadian friends and a son in London. You've captured how most of my contacts feel - and I have to send this to the non-FAWMers in my address book. Echoing the other comments...really well done! What a breakup song!
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It is amazing the speed and the dumbness at which Trump moves. He seems to be like a mafia boss shaking local businessess down. This is a poignant song.
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Really captures a feeling of loss and change and has a looking both back and ahead feeling.
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Great song here, with poignant lyrics reflecting what so many are feeling right now. Also very well performed. It wasn't you; unfortunately, it was us. Really well done.
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This is a great song. It is sad. It is true. And the aaaah part is just a singalong. Hope you publish this one
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the dirge is a fitting vehicle for this farewell, i especially like the third verse. i could write a similar song, but it wouls be about the entire world, not just one country. the problem in my view is that reality no longer exists anywhere. people live inside their iphones and ipads and their only views of the outside world come from the media. not only is there no more La, Denver, or memphis...there is no more London, Paris, or rome.
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Listening in from the USA where we have gone full on idiocracy. I love your take here, the lyrics hit hard. It’s a wistful longing chorus and totally sounds like a breakup song. I really hope the damage is not as bad as we all fear
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Oh yes. This does hit home. As a proud Brit (formerly American) I’m glad to be on the other side of the pond as it’s rather frightening what is happening in my once beloved country. I love how you sing Americaaaaa - it’s very catchy. Well crafted lyrics. Topical subject, nostalgic music that tugs on the heart strings.
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Love the hashtag #ohcanada I have been using it too. Your production here is fantastic,suits the lyric beautifully.