This is one of the most controversial videos Madonna has, and it is one of my favorite ones, the quality is from another world and its timeless cause war till today is not over in several countrys, and its so sad and horrible, but its the reality, MADONNA has a vision and the courage that no woman in the music industry has. And obviosly they censure her, but i love her and respect her for speak out loud of this important subjects that hurt you as a human.
NOBODY ever did before or since a video so powerful. She pulled the video mainly because she was afraid for her children. Radio stopped playing her anyway.
The original video that aired didn’t end with the grenade landing on the runway. It originally ended with a Bush impersonator catching the grenade and lighting his cigar on it. The original video only aired about 3 times before she removed it because of people threatening the lives of her children
And there was another one where Bush catches the granade while Saddam Hussein is next to him. He lights Saddam's cigar and they laugh. This one was used as a backdrop for this song in the Re-Invention Tour
As a filmmaker myself, I have always appreciated artists who use their art to express their feelings and thoughts even if it's not popular. Madonna has always excelled at this. This song was her statement of that time period and the politics around then. Very few artists would dare to even speak out, let alone make a song and video like this. This was a damaging turning point for her career as far as radio airplay. Though she had a great success on the past two albums, the pulling/refusal to play this song on the radio really did hurt it's impact. The album in my opinion is amazing. One of her best for me. I hope you all get to hear gems like Nothing Fails, Intervention, and Xstatic-Process. Love how much you were affected by this Brenda. You wear your heart on your sleeves. We are hear for that type of honesty. Love you guys!
Yes. Her American Life album has been overlooked due to the controversy generated by its socio-political critique of the wars post 9/11 and the superficiality of the American dream and society’s apathy about it all. But this album has gradually gained the acclaim it deserved over time. Nothing Fails, Nobody Knows Me, and Mother & Father are outstanding gems from this album.
We love you too (and we're always grateful you're here)! ❤️❤️ "As a filmmaker myself, I have always appreciated artists who use their art to express their feelings and thoughts even if it's not popular. Madonna has always excelled at this. This song was her statement of that time period and the politics around then. Very few artists would dare to even speak out, let alone make a song and video like this." Beautifully said! ❤️
Fun fact if you listen closely throughout the entire song Madonna never closes the word American Life. Instead she says American LIE, Which changes the entire meaning of the song
This video is so damn powerful. She had pulled it because of death threats to her and her family. Plus the Iraq War. There are several versions. The ending had been scrapped with the cigar part. It had two lookalikes, Bush and Saddam Hussein sitting next to each other.
I love all in this Madonna's era, Art Cover album, the Reinvention Tour. All Song in American Life talk about American Dream. I Love you girls! ❤❤❤ kiss. Argentina
She was life threatened, she thought in her children that's why she pulled the video out. She was almost cancelled in the US (once more). As you can see she always speaks her mind no matter what, even if that means to put her career in risk. Even today she's banned in several radios in the US.
You may recall that George W. Bush's response to a reporter's question about what regular people can do in response to 9/11 was "You can go shopping". This video and song are a condemnation of the vulgarity of what the American Dream has become and that its achievement is on the backs of regular people in other countries who are the victims of the militaristic policies of the United States so that the US can reign supreme and we can have our lattes, superficial lifestyles and fashionable clothes. I believe that this album is one of Madonna's best. At the time, it was widely panned, but its reputation has improved tremendously since then. Once again, Madonna is an inconvenient truth teller and ahead of the curve. Not surprised at your reaction or the impact the video had on you both. Thanks for the commentary and reaction. You are both the best!!!
Love this song and video! Folk Electronica. The funny thing I remember about this song is that so many people, including fans, swore up and down that Madonna’s rap was supposed to be serious and taken seriously 😂 She was mocking things and rap was/is big in America. She was taking the piss and as usual, people thought she had lost her mind rapping about Soy Lattes. 😂 There are so many great tracks on this album. More people need to check it out. Thank you again for your take, ladies. 🥰🥰
The people on the sidelines in the audience represented that wealthy, elite, corporate, military industrial complex people, the media, and the American people who, at the time, ATE IT UP as entertainment when you’re right, it was the civilians, children, and soldiers that were making the sacrifices.
This was one of the best reactions I’ve ever seen, this was so real and I’m so glad and touched that this video moved you. That was her whole point. The war, racism, homophobia, hate all around the world and then there’s the Rich government and all those kind of people living their luxurious lives and profiting of it all. Some People thought she was promoting violence with the video, absolutely the opposite, she was and still is, such a genius and such a trail blazer. There has never really been another artist, at least with her level of fame and power, that has used their platform like this. This is why she is who she is. Still to this day there’s so many causes she’s is a voice for and she has become hated for it by many but she has always stood up for what she’s believed in. Incredible woman. Nobody like her and nobody will ever be like her again. She’s kind of the last of the true music icons.
Aww, you're very kind - Thank you so much! ❤️❤️ "There has never really been another artist, at least with her level of fame and power, that has used their platform like this. This is why she is who she is. Still to this day there’s so many causes she’s is a voice for and she has become hated for it by many but she has always stood up for what she’s believed in. Incredible woman. Nobody like her and nobody will ever be like her again. She’s kind of the last of the true music icons." Very well said! ❤️
Knew this one would be intense but you broke it down beautifully. The glamourization and commodidization of war. Brenda's mature perspective (i think we're probably about the same age) and remembering the general sentiment at that time really helps in unpacking all the layers here and realizing the outrage this would have engendered. Madonna said the fact that she now had her children's safety to consider was what made her decide to pull the video....an unprecedented move for an artist who'd never censored herself before.
Thank you! ❤️❤️ "Madonna said the fact that she now had her children's safety to consider was what made her decide to pull the video....an unprecedented move for an artist who'd never censored herself before." It's so heartbreaking that the political climate caused her to fear for the safety of her children.
I became a fan of Madonna because of this song. 😢 Girls, I know you normally react to singles and music vídeos, but PLEASE listen to Nothing Fails for this album. It is one of the most beautiful of her songs
Big hugs to you! ❤️❤️ "Girls, I know you normally react to singles and music vídeos, but PLEASE listen to Nothing Fails for this album. It is one of the most beautiful of her songs" Thank you for this suggestion! ❤️
Love your honest and raw reaction to the video. Personally, I've always watched this video and visited the American Life era with regret for Madonna b/c I truly feel that's when she lost the American audience. She lost them once after Erotica but got them back with Ray of Light and Music. Then she lost them again and really never recovered. But hearing your reaction truly makes me appreciate what Madonna was on a mission to do here and call out so much of what's "wrong" with our culture and government. She threw sales and charts out the window and just wanted to say what she felt needed to be said. And that's what has made Madonna Madonna and if anything, that will be her greatest legacy. She definitely fared better in her career after this period than the Chicks (formerly Dixie Chicks) did, but not nearly to the degree she had earlier in her career. And that will also be one of her greatest aspects of her legacy.
She actually got America back on her side during the Super Bowl. There was a lot of positivity and genuine appreciate for her at the time. Pre-orders for MDNA and the tour were huge but it was all for nothing. The album and tour were not well received by the general public. If the quality of the album were better and if the tour handled differently, it would have changed things moving forward in a more positive direction. There was zero interest for Rebel Heart as a result.
@@1UpJohn The only thing the Super Bowl performance proved was that there were a lot of folks who remembered her legacy and wanted to see her perform. Had nothing to do with her new material and that was proven by the failure of the MDNA album and all singles released.
Aww, thank you so much! ❤️❤️ "She threw sales and charts out the window and just wanted to say what she felt needed to be said." Perfectly said. Big hugs to you!❤️
One of her most underrated songs, videos and albums. IMO. This was genius and so ahead of it’s time ( at the time) the whole album was a masterpiece. Only Madonna would do something so controversial but always to get an important message across. She’s such an amazing artist ❤
There is no other artist capable of transmitting so much information in such a direct, intelligent, impactful and courageous way as Madonna. Thank you ladies❤❤
Hye Brenda and Emily. There is no words to say.... Just our eyes for crying, just our brain for thinking.... and common sense.... This video was made in 2003.... but is still topical news...... Madonna is the first to show the reality of our world, of the dark side of humanity, and I love her so much for fighting against it. War is not a TV show we see seatting on a couch with popcorns, war is the most horrible invention who kills everyday innocents peoples.... Thank you Madonna, even if in 2003 the radio ignored you for that.... (American Life was a success in France, it was the country the album and singles works a lot.) We are all human beings with two arms, two legs.... shouldn't matter the rest..... Sorry but I am always upset with this subject. With kindness and hugs for you, and all humanity. Your little frenchy!
Biggest hugs to you. ❤️❤️ It's true - There really aren't words to say. And it's incredibly heartbreaking that this is still so relevant today... Thank you for being here - Sending so much love your way!❤️
Always loving your reactions! Brenda, your crying made me cry. So much to receive from that video and the message behind the lyrics. I’m still waiting on your audio reaction to her frozen remix!
Congratulations. Only some people really understood the meaning of this video/song. Once again (as always) this is one of the examples where Madonna was criticized because of the shock value, but you nailed it, you understand exactly what she mean with this 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
This video is one of the most powerful things she has ever done. She rightly shows there are no winners in a war and it’s the innocent who suffer. I remember the era as well Brenda. It was at times chilling and society felt more desensitised to what was going on. Everyone is someone’s child/brother/sister when all is said and done. It felt and feels now as if we haven’t learned from WW1 and WW2 when we should know better. She pulled the video as was concerned about the impact on her children, the first and only time she has backed down. Her care for children shines and she is one of the few with the backbone to constantly highlight the human cost. Your review was very touching , considered and thoughtful. If only our politicians had your empathy x
Aww, thank you so much! ❤️❤️ "Everyone is someone’s child/brother/sister when all is said and done. It felt and feels now as if we haven’t learned from WW1 and WW2 when we should know better." Very well said - Big hugs to you!❤️
Another great reaction ❤❤ Art is to provoke emotion , reaction and reflection. She did make the right decision to withdraw this edit. Great insights from two intelligent individuals ❤❤
That was a really awesome response and conversation. I’ve always felt this was one of the bravest anti-war messages ever put forward by anyone of any standing at that particular time. We, as bystanders, were all expected to just accept that the brutality of war was not just necessary, but should be somehow celebrated. It was deemed dutiful to be patriotic in supporting the atrocities of war…..yet unpatriotic to have the audacity to suggest that it was barbaric, and to be unsupportive in the killing and destruction of thousands of humans. M presented perfectly the glamorisation of war, as well as it being sold to the masses as some kind of grotesque entertainment. The news outlets all vying to show us the very worse footage they could screen, in some twisted believe that everyone would be further encouraged to engage with the war mentality and crimes associated with it. The song perfectly captures the sense of “where do I fit in ” and “who am I” if I think differently from the majority opinion. M, as you know, was by this time in her career was well versed in being torn down for her freedom of speech, and sharing her personal perspective on issues she felt needed to be critiqued, by bringing a different perspective to the conversation. This time may not have been rewarding for M commercially……However, she showed her true metal yet again, in at least attempting to not just sit back and say nothing. For that she was/ is an absolute Heroine.
Thank you so much - Big hugs to you! ❤️❤️ "The song perfectly captures the sense of “where do I fit in ” and “who am I” if I think differently from the majority opinion." So well said! ❤️
There are more director's cut versions of this video with different endings and edits. but you got the gist of it :) it's a tough video and song. i always tear up at the end of the video. and madonna's career in the u.s. was kind of over after this. half year earlier she had her last top 10 billboard 100 song with Die Another Day. After that she only achieved it thrice until today.
This video has already gone down in history, for several reason, as it usually is with Madonna but it truly is a piece of art that says something extremely important.
Hi ladies! This is what I love about her songs and videos, she is always pushing you to deal with some issues that we all see but nobody talks; is like talking about the elephant in the room….. We were angry, sad and frustrated for what happened (the same we all are now) but the response, that war (and this war) is something that we could not be proud about. Thank you so much for this Emily and Brenda! Lots of love from Barcelona ❤
Thank you for being here - Much love to you! ❤️❤️ "This is what I love about her songs and videos, she is always pushing you to deal with some issues that we all see but nobody talks; is like talking about the elephant in the room….." So true. ❤️
I was already a huge fan at the time, so I was all in when this song and video was released and loved it but it was extremely divisive within the fanbase and created a backlash with the general public. It was a very rough time to be a fan. As you said, the cultural climate at the time was not open to anything anti-war. There's a lot of symbolism in the video and many missed it. Because the video was pulled, many people only knew Madonna did an "anti-American" video, so there was no context.
The absolute shock and confusion in your faces when she started rapping 😂 But jokes aside, the controversy and her subsequently having to pull out the video ended up proving the point that Madonna was trying to make in the first place: America’s view of war as something sacred and patriotic instead of barbaric and condemnable is as ludicrous as the reaction of the audience in the video’s fashion show. And Brenda, as others have said here, we really appreciate your insightful commentary and how you wear your heart on your sleeve. That’s what makes your reactions so genuine. ❤
Aww, thank you - You're very kind! ❤️❤️ "The absolute shock and confusion in your faces when she started rapping" 😂😂 "...the controversy and her subsequently having to pull out the video ended up proving the point that Madonna was trying to make in the first place: America’s view of war as something sacred and patriotic instead of barbaric and condemnable is as ludicrous as the reaction of the audience in the video’s fashion show." So well said! Big hugs to you. ❤️
This is my favorite Madonna era and this was such a stark shift in her music. Because of this song, US radio stopped playing her music and hurt her image like you mentioned the Dixie Chicks. US radio never really supported her afterwards.
I dont think she should have pulled the video, it was a brilliant video that turned out to be totally true. It did completely hurt her career in America for daring to speak out. She pulled it because the war started and didnt want to upset the soldiers as she supports them, she just hated war, always has. She still does it today, shes more political than ever and thank god for it.
I love how the electro-acoustic production on this record mirrors the "consumerism vs authenticity" theme of the lyrics. The whole album plays with that and it wasn't appreciated when it came out, critically or commercially. American Life is wholly underrated!
"I love how the electro-acoustic production on this record mirrors the "consumerism vs authenticity" theme of the lyrics." Such a great observation! ❤️❤️
Madonna was looking for a reaction like yours Brenda! Being moved to tears on what the political climate was at that time and making a huge statement about it. Thank you ladies for this wonderful in depth reaction. You two are the best!! ❤❤
Shocking and moving. A great reaction as always … and you can imagine the concern for Madonna to pull a video off (I believe the concern was due to threats or safety of her children) so I respect that, but you know it’s got to be huge if Madonna, out of all artists pulls a video. This alum is actually one of my favourites, and there are some songs (not singles, sadly) that have her most honest and broken down haunting lyrics. I do hope at some stage you ladies can do full album reactions - this is an album you would want to hear. Sending you both light and love.
Aww, thank you so much - Sending lots of love and light right back to you! ❤️❤️ After we finish the journey through her singles discography, we're planning to go back and do deeper dives into the albums - Looking forward to it! ❤️
I can understand why you would not want to watch this video again, I could feel your emotional reaction to it. I was getting emotional listening to you. The song itself is amazing and I would encourage you just to listen to the song, so you can really absorb the lyrics without the distraction of the video. I have been waiting for you both to react to this Album, as it was controversial and divisive and she lost a lot of her US fans in response to this album from what I understand. Many radio stations stopped playing her as a result. As an Australian it was less divisive on a political level, however I think a lot of people did not like the style of this album or the political messages. I think they just found it too serious. Personally I think it’s a masterpiece. I agree that Madonna is being self critical as well as critiquing society’s values. I’m looking forward to your response to Hollywood. There are so many powerful and beautiful songs on this Album.
"I can understand why you would not want to watch this video again, I could feel your emotional reaction to it. I was getting emotional listening to you. The song itself is amazing and I would encourage you just to listen to the song, so you can really absorb the lyrics without the distraction of the video." Aww, big hugs to you! ❤️❤️ And completely agree about listening to the song without the video - Thank you for that suggestion! ❤️
WellI was a little like Emily the first time I watched this, I didn't understand the whole context of the song and the video, but Brenda took it all in and was moved to tears 🥹 Great reaction. This was also Madonna's last album under her own record label "Maverick", the first one was Erotica, so I think she really did justice to all that creativity freedom.
Thank you! ❤️❤️ It was definitely a lot to process at once. "This was also Madonna's last album under her own record label "Maverick", the first one was Erotica, so I think she really did justice to all that creativity freedom." Thank you for sharing that info with us! ❤️
Before the Hollywood video you MUST WATCH this two specials. The first is this intimate MTV concert where she sings songs from the American Life album and a classic. There’s is also an interesting interview inside and fans questions and more stuff. You need to watch this extended version from MTV 2 since she did one extra song and there is more stuff that wasn’t aired on the main MTV channel ua-cam.com/video/bFgNT1xjCZo/v-deo.htmlsi=S-YNMNUqOyYtFwio Then you have to watch this MTV Special where she talks about the American Life video and Kaballah ua-cam.com/video/8g--MA-ufxI/v-deo.htmlsi=Pb9yZSmcZf7Sc0oI
How did you manage to put links in? I thought they stopped people doing it? Do I thought as I be numerous times in the last year but never gets into the comments.
I believe that Brenda summarized everything about the American dream in a very simple way to understand. I love it when she says "fuck it", as if that was something that had been stored inside her for a long time and she needed to get out how much it bothered her. As for the video, it is more focused on the American military invasions and how this is destroying the rest of the world to support this American dream. At least that's how I get it. Hugs girls and I come here to ASK people not to release spoilers for the music videos before the react, please.
Big hugs to you too! ❤️❤️ "I love it when she says "fuck it", as if that was something that had been stored inside her for a long time and she needed to get out how much it bothered her." Absolutely! That's exactly how it felt. Thank you for being here with us! ❤️
Thanks for your heartfelt reaction. I believe Madonna retracted this video through fear of retaliation towards her children... as after 9/11 it was such a different time and the idea of being anti-patriotic was abhorrent to most. I think its the only time I can think of that Madonna has bowed down to the possibility of a negative reaction... but i totally get it! The images of war and of children being caught up in it are still sadly so relevant today 😔 This video is still a great work of art as its makes us think... i always thought that this video was a commentary on life pre and post 9/11. That America viewed war as an insignificant thing until the granade (or 9/11) was dropped on its own soil. Thanks for your reaction which was as moving and thoughtful as ever. ❤❤
Thank you so much - Biggest hugs to you! ❤️❤️ "I believe Madonna retracted this video through fear of retaliation towards her children... as after 9/11 it was such a different time and the idea of being anti-patriotic was abhorrent to most. I think its the only time I can think of that Madonna has bowed down to the possibility of a negative reaction... but i totally get it!" Her retraction of the video (and concern for her children) was completely understandable in that environment. "The images of war and of children being caught up in it are still sadly so relevant today" So true (and heartbreaking). Sending lots of love your way! ❤️
Anti-war through and through, it was around the Iraq invasion and Madonna was effectively blacklisted for being anti-war, proved in case of Iraq like so many she was right, should never have been invaded. The song lyrics talk about how we strive for a perfect American Life but in reality it's not all it's cracked up to be
fue el primer album que compre de madonna y la conoci, es un buen album, las letrs son muy profundas y sus mensajes, madonna guapisima, una era dorada,, mis 16 años 2003, todo mundo discutia sobre este video y el sigueinte hollywood asi como el beso y la gira cuando se convierte en la mujer con lla gira mas taquillera, que año de triunfos
Yaaay 🥳 American life era ! Have a fab time ladies - it’s going to be an awesome ride 🙌🏻 the album is one of her best , completely ahead of its time and well respected especially later on in her career. It’s a very important record. By the way I got down on the rabbit hole (😝) after the Madonna in matrix conversation found two version on which part she got offered.. version one was Trinity (!) played by Carrie-Anne Moss and in version two SWITCH popped up played by the brilliant Belinda Mcclory.. But really , only Madonna knows the answer as there’s no real trails in this investigation . Whatever I found are more likely speculations by fans and industry experts 😌🌷
"By the way I got down on the rabbit hole (😝) after the Madonna in matrix conversation found two version on which part she got offered.. version one was Trinity (!) played by Carrie-Anne Moss and in version two SWITCH popped up played by the brilliant Belinda Mcclory.. But really , only Madonna knows the answer as there’s no real trails in this investigation . Whatever I found are more likely speculations by fans and industry experts." Thank you for going down that rabbit hole! It's fascinating to consider the possibilities (of what might have been)... Here's hoping she'll tell the story one day! Big hugs to you! ❤️❤️
You should watch the interview and tv special where she speaks with Matt Lauer (eh, I know) about this video and the inspiration behind this song and album.
This is actually the same time, same album that got Madonna pulled from the radio too. She never did achieve the same level of success that she had before this album. It's since been revelled in critical acclaim, but she took a massive hit. Don't get me wrong, she still continued to have MASSIVE success, but she struggled to get radio play, which impacted her ability to get the #1's she deserved. This album is a top 3 Madonna album for me.
Glad you got this one over with, you can relax now for a long time . So brave of her to do it even if it shocked us or not SOMEONE had to speak up, not only the Dixie Chicks but of course Madonna did and when she goes for it you know she totally does. In fact Its a shame that the original isnt available but the end was tongue in cheek sat front row President Bush look alike catches her hand grenade and lights Saddam Hussains Cigar with it then the screen goes Black. It was shown but then cut out to be less political. Then even this version she just didnt feel easy with it with death threats and her little kids. War for entertainment and money can make people a fortune, others make it in a different way but once youve got everything you want you still cant pay to stop wars when others are profiting. All you can do is rebel. So she does. The song ended up a flop in the US. No real video. Its actually a great song and video; just hard to handle. (love you guys x)
We love you too - Big hugs to you! ❤️❤️ "So brave of her to do it even if it shocked us or not SOMEONE had to speak up, not only the Dixie Chicks but of course Madonna did and when she goes for it you know she totally does." You're so right - True art should shock us at times (and wake us up when we need it). ❤️
At the end of this video a smirk George Bush look alike picks up the bomb and it's a lighter. People went after Madonna for her rapping but if you thinking about it Madonna rapped on Erotica. She has expressed no regrets since she was just being sarcastic . You ladies got it right. lot's of people just look at it as her looking for controversies . Love your comments, thank you. by, the way the Dixie chicks went after George Bush in a live concert . Remember, the twin towers had just gone down
Yeah…her rapping in this song was a great way to express her rage. She had appreciated Black culture and music growing up in Pontiac, MI and nearby Detroit with its large Black population and when she moved to NYC in the late 70s, rap/hip hop was on the rise coming out of the Bronx. It’s the innercity Black youth’s music genre to express their frustrations, anger, with their situation living in blighted ghettos plagued by poverty, drug use/dealing, gang violence, despair-it’s their way of “indicting” mainstream society for its seeming indifference, and their disdain for the police racial profiling of them resulting in many of them being arrested repeatedly and they’re having long RAP sheets( Record of Arrests and Prosecutions) for what they perceived as minor offenses (misdemeanors) and trumped up charges. Madonna had empathized with their plight-one reason behind her 1989 Like A Prayer video, or in 1994 when she released her video of Human Nature when she wore braided corn rows-a hairstyle popular among Black youth as an expression of defiance.
The American life...is nothing what it seems....Madonna had BALLS to put this out and she risked her whole career for HER opinion. Back then everybody in the USA applauded Bush to invade Iraq...and her video was a mirror to that...to present the war on the catwalk and the stage and everybody is applauding the show....because also in real life eveybody was applauding Bush and the invasion... Her songs and the album from then on, were pulled from the radio..from then on Madonna was kinda "csncelled" in the USA...but not in europe and with Confessions and Hung up she made a huge comeback in europe...but not in the USA...she could never recover in the USA from then on TILL the Superbowl in 2012 and her Mdna Tour...and America embraced her again. Also, during "American life" she was living in england. So thats why the critisicm in the USA was even higher while the reviews in europe were much better. But still..the album didnt had huge sucess overall as i agree with the point..that with "War Subjects" you shouldnt make money. Like U2, Dixie Chicks, Bruce Springsteen...she was not alone with this kind of "Music Politics"....but we shouldnt forget that MADONNA always had political subjects in her songs, LGBTQ Subjects, femal pregnancy in Papa Dont Preach or Female Empowerment in Express Yourself ect ext... Nontheless, the album grew on me in time, it had wonderful songs like Love Profusion or Mother and Father, X Static Process, Nothing Fails... She did a similar video "shocker" with "God Control" from Madame X, which aswell is one of her most powerful clips about Gun Laws in the USA...HIGHLY recommend that one!
"The American life...is nothing what it seems....Madonna had BALLS to put this out and she risked her whole career for HER opinion. Back then everybody in the USA applauded Bush to invade Iraq...and her video was a mirror to that...to present the war on the catwalk and the stage and everybody is applauding the show....because also in real life eveybody was applauding Bush and the invasion..." Such a great description of this video and message! ❤️❤️ "She did a similar video "shocker" with "God Control" from Madame X, which aswell is one of her most powerful clips about Gun Laws in the USA...HIGHLY recommend that one!" Sounds incredible - Really looking forward it! Big hugs to you!
The video and song were certainly in response to the post-9/11 world we lived in, and the reality of war for profit/hate for profit. Madonna's rap was her rattling off all of the blessings she'd been given in life, but refusing to be satisfied with simply having her success but ceasing to speak out against the atrocities being done in our names around the world. Its a powerful statement, and she absolutely owned it.
along with all the other things that other viewers have said, here's another fun fact: every single choice and sound in this song was intentional. she intentionally sounds very robotic and a bit much on the autotune because she says that that's what everyone has become now and it's what music has become, and the famous rap part also was a poke that at the fact that everyone raps and you kind of need to rap nowadays to really make it. it's a very, very, very deep video and song and i love it
"here's another fun fact: every single choice and sound in this song was intentional. she intentionally sounds very robotic and a bit much on the autotune because she says that that's what everyone has become now and it's what music has become, and the famous rap part also was a poke that at the fact that everyone raps and you kind of need to rap nowadays to really make it." Thank you for sharing that info with us! ❤️❤️ Love how every detail serves such an important purpose.
Living through the aftershock of 9/11 was so traumatizing. I was at a friends barbeque and they played 'Where were you when...?' and 9/11 came up. Everybody went through their stories and when they got to me I started telling my story as normal but found myself getting more and more upset and my voice got pitchy and higher. Before I know it, full blown tears started flowing. I was so embarrassed even though they assured me it was totally ok to respond like that. I grew up in Allentown, PA. I was in the 8th grade and more and more kids were leaving throughout the day. By lunch time, the cafeteria was quieter than usual with half the kids gone. Teachers who were usually friendly were cold. By 8th period, we wanted answers. Then our principal, a normally emotionless, stoic woman, spoke over the intercom. "All after school activities are cancelled today. Planes have crashed..." Her voice broke and cut away. Realizing she had been crying, we turned to our teacher, Mrs. Quinter, who ironically was our history teacher. She then told us what horror took place. After a short pause of us taking in the information, some girls in our class started to freak out. You see, New York City is not too far from Allentown, PA at all. Many people would commute to work in the city by taking a charter bus. They were called Beiber Tourways. The bus station was located in Wescoesville, PA just across from Dorney Park and Wild Water Kingdom. I remember sitting on the red vinyl booths of the diner people ate at while waiting for their bus. People had these flip books that were monthly passes. The reason my classmates were freaking out was because their parents worked in the towers. So we were there all day with this information being kept from us only to be told at the last second. I'll never forget how my one classmate, Jaime P, reacted. She was a really pretty mixed girl and really tall. curly hair and very popular. She let out a weak cry, slowly brought her forehead down to her desk and outstretched her arms to the side, palms up and kept them there. She was unwillingly relinquishing any hope of their survival. Her older brother did not make it.
Thank you so much for taking the time to share your personal experience with us.❤️❤️ The memories you described are the kind that stay etched on your heart and last a lifetime - It's no wonder that recalling the events from that day would be an incredibly emotional experience for you. Sending so much love and healing your way. ❤️
I think it was a perfect example of numb Americans watching the horror that exists in the world and looking at it as a show rather than reality. Madonna is always thought provoking in her lyrics and visuals. She was really brave for putting this out at that time. It was a scary time in the US.
This music video almost cancelled M in America. Radios stopped playing her, and its follow-up single was her first song to not chart at all in the US. I'm in Australia, we were critical of the knee-jerk "War on Terror" so it struck a chord here. I dont recall the revised video being played here, I think we still had the original video (but it ends with Bush lighting his cigar with the grenade-lighter, and kissing Saddam Hussein).
You REALLY SHOULD listen to each new album BEFORE you watch the videos. That way, you’re not only giving yourself the opportunity to hear the lyrics and music separately but also giving yourself the chance to hear the songs that weren’t singles/videos.
Hi, there are different versions of this video, my favorite is the one with Saddam and Bush. Madonna made several alternate endings to the video to get it aired, but when she received death threats for her children, she decided to withdraw the video. It was the first time this had happened.The video that was put in rotation was just Madonna singing with the background of all the flags of the world
Easily one of her best videos. It was directed by Jonas Åkerlund. I remember watching this 3 times in a row on MTV Latin America before it was pulled out. She received so much hate in the US during this era because of the anti-Bush message and everything about the war in 2003. People were so sensitive after the 911. She’s always been a visionary, ahead of its time messenger. Love this and I adore the single. Such a clever video showing awful war scenes and yet some news channels don’t have a problem with it. The intensity and message was clear.
This video shows the insanity of war in general, with people in the audience laughing and applauding all the violence on the catwalk. The rest of the album is nothing like this, so deep and emotional. There were only a couple of video's made for this record, but 'Nothing Fails' which is fantastic and released as a single never had one unfortunately, such a great song, could have been a classic Madonna hit. My two other favorites of the album are non singles "X-tatic Process' and "Intervention'.
I feel bad that this song and video controversy turned away interest in listening to the full album because it's one of her strongest. Many beautiful love songs but you wouldn't know it from the album cover and first single.
"There were only a couple of video's made for this record, but 'Nothing Fails' which is fantastic and released as a single never had one unfortunately, such a great song, could have been a classic Madonna hit. My two other favorites of the album are non singles "X-tatic Process' and "Intervention'." Can't wait to hear the rest of this album - Sounds like some wonderful songs are ahead! ❤️❤️
@@OurAnxiousReactions You are very welcome. Hope your dealing with the heat well. I love the summer but the humidity is the worst. I want to move to Johnny Depp's Island. He's hardly ever there. I mean come on. 🏖️🩴🌊🍹🍸🍺🍷🧉🌞
If you wanna have more info on this period, there are many interviews available. This interview here is one of the best regarding the release of the album and the pulling of the video ua-cam.com/video/h-qcpidludY/v-deo.html
Well, she did vote for Al Gore 🤷 This one was inspired by the Bush administration. Wait til you see this in the Reinvention tour! I like when Madonna gets political. No Fear. Great review ladies. Have an awesome day! ♥️ Edit: Dixie Chicks dared to speak out against Bush’s war in Iraq
Aww, thank you! ❤️❤️ "Wait til you see this in the Reinvention tour!" Can't even imagine what she does with this one on tour - Excited to see it! Have a wonderful weekend! ❤️
Madonna was getting threats from the hard right , endangering her husband and two kids. She made the video before the decision to go to war. I think had she still was a single woman, she would not have pulled the video.
I actually think the follow up is a much better song. And the video is glorious. EDIT Look out for Italian icon Sophia Loren in the audience of the American Life video, unless those scenes were removed. I can't remember off hand.
"Look out for Italian icon Sophia Loren in the audience of the American Life video, unless those scenes were removed." We'll have to go back and look for her - Thank you for letting us know! ❤️❤️
@@OurAnxiousReactions I just rewatched and yes Sophia is there. I tried to get the tike stamp thing but the Sun is shining right in my mince pies hehehehe
Hey ladies, love your "M" reactions. So raw and honest. After you watch the videos for Hollywood and Love Profusion, you MUST watch her documentary "I'm going to tell you a secret". Essentially it's the followup to "Truth or Dare". I found a link here on UA-cam but Im not sure if it will still be working by the time you get to it. I'm sure you can find it online somewhere like Amazon or something: ua-cam.com/video/CE2hBeGtoZ8/v-deo.html And after you watch the documentary, THEN I suggest watching the Reinvention Tour in full. The tour was never officially released on video, but this is probably the best compilation edit on UA-cam: ua-cam.com/video/AZLgEzuDBsk/v-deo.html Have fun, American Life is one of my favorite eras. Album was truly experimental. Folk Electronica!
Many people would agree M’s career is divided pre American life and post. Many here are commenting accurately that she was quietly banned. Hits she has after that would have been #1 got zero airplay. She was blacklisted as a result of this era but she was also 45. Ageism got strong at this point.
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Only madonna can make videos like this. and this is why I respect her.
This is one of the most controversial videos Madonna has, and it is one of my favorite ones, the quality is from another world and its timeless cause war till today is not over in several countrys, and its so sad and horrible, but its the reality, MADONNA has a vision and the courage that no woman in the music industry has. And obviosly they censure her, but i love her and respect her for speak out loud of this important subjects that hurt you as a human.
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NOBODY ever did before or since a video so powerful. She pulled the video mainly because she was afraid for her children. Radio stopped playing her anyway.
The original video that aired didn’t end with the grenade landing on the runway. It originally ended with a Bush impersonator catching the grenade and lighting his cigar on it. The original video only aired about 3 times before she removed it because of people threatening the lives of her children
And there was another one where Bush catches the granade while Saddam Hussein is next to him. He lights Saddam's cigar and they laugh. This one was used as a backdrop for this song in the Re-Invention Tour
Correct me if I’m wrong. The video was made before America went to war in Iraq.
@@Xfile1947 you’re absolutely right, it was made before the war
As a filmmaker myself, I have always appreciated artists who use their art to express their feelings and thoughts even if it's not popular. Madonna has always excelled at this. This song was her statement of that time period and the politics around then. Very few artists would dare to even speak out, let alone make a song and video like this. This was a damaging turning point for her career as far as radio airplay. Though she had a great success on the past two albums, the pulling/refusal to play this song on the radio really did hurt it's impact. The album in my opinion is amazing. One of her best for me. I hope you all get to hear gems like Nothing Fails, Intervention, and Xstatic-Process. Love how much you were affected by this Brenda. You wear your heart on your sleeves. We are hear for that type of honesty. Love you guys!
Yes. Her American Life album has been overlooked due to the controversy generated by its socio-political critique of the wars post 9/11 and the superficiality of the American dream and society’s apathy about it all. But this album has gradually gained the acclaim it deserved over time. Nothing Fails, Nobody Knows Me, and Mother & Father are outstanding gems from this album.
We love you too (and we're always grateful you're here)! ❤️❤️
"As a filmmaker myself, I have always appreciated artists who use their art to express their feelings and thoughts even if it's not popular. Madonna has always excelled at this. This song was her statement of that time period and the politics around then. Very few artists would dare to even speak out, let alone make a song and video like this."
Beautifully said! ❤️
Fun fact if you listen closely throughout the entire song Madonna never closes the word American Life. Instead she says American LIE, Which changes the entire meaning of the song
Fan fiction.. 😆
@@mike8055it’s actually true, she did something similar with God (Gun) Control
yup this is true. she never closes the "F"
@@mike8055i mean, whether it was intentional or not, it's still something people have found meaning in
Omg I hear it. I've been a fan my whole life and I've heard this song 7 billion times and I never knew this, but I can't unhear it now!
Madonna said that her fans are intelligent…..I agree.
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A true artistic statement...shocking and moving
Completely agree. ❤️❤️
This video is so damn powerful. She had pulled it because of death threats to her and her family. Plus the Iraq War. There are several versions. The ending had been scrapped with the cigar part. It had two lookalikes, Bush and Saddam Hussein sitting next to each other.
You both ladies should be getting more and more subs. This channel is a must!
You're very kind - Thank you so much! ❤️❤️
I love all in this Madonna's era, Art Cover album, the Reinvention Tour. All Song in American Life talk about American Dream. I Love you girls! ❤❤❤ kiss. Argentina
Aww, thank you - We love you too! Big hugs to you! ❤️❤️😘
She was life threatened, she thought in her children that's why she pulled the video out. She was almost cancelled in the US (once more). As you can see she always speaks her mind no matter what, even if that means to put her career in risk. Even today she's banned in several radios in the US.
We're back at that time now too. Song fits well. The entire album American Life is great. 2003. Check out "Nothing Fails" from American Life .
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You may recall that George W. Bush's response to a reporter's question about what regular people can do in response to 9/11 was "You can go shopping". This video and song are a condemnation of the vulgarity of what the American Dream has become and that its achievement is on the backs of regular people in other countries who are the victims of the militaristic policies of the United States so that the US can reign supreme and we can have our lattes, superficial lifestyles and fashionable clothes. I believe that this album is one of Madonna's best. At the time, it was widely panned, but its reputation has improved tremendously since then. Once again, Madonna is an inconvenient truth teller and ahead of the curve. Not surprised at your reaction or the impact the video had on you both. Thanks for the commentary and reaction. You are both the best!!!
exactly this
Thank you so much - Biggest hugs to you! ❤️❤️
"Once again, Madonna is an inconvenient truth teller and ahead of the curve."
Absolutely! ❤️
Love this song and video! Folk Electronica. The funny thing I remember about this song is that so many people, including fans, swore up and down that Madonna’s rap was supposed to be serious and taken seriously 😂 She was mocking things and rap was/is big in America. She was taking the piss and as usual, people thought she had lost her mind rapping about Soy Lattes. 😂 There are so many great tracks on this album. More people need to check it out. Thank you again for your take, ladies. 🥰🥰
Aww, thank you so much! ❤️❤️
"...people thought she had lost her mind rapping about Soy Lattes."
😂😂.
The people on the sidelines in the audience represented that wealthy, elite, corporate, military industrial complex people, the media, and the American people who, at the time, ATE IT UP as entertainment when you’re right, it was the civilians, children, and soldiers that were making the sacrifices.
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This was one of the best reactions I’ve ever seen, this was so real and I’m so glad and touched that this video moved you. That was her whole point. The war, racism, homophobia, hate all around the world and then there’s the Rich government and all those kind of people living their luxurious lives and profiting of it all. Some People thought she was promoting violence with the video, absolutely the opposite, she was and still is, such a genius and such a trail blazer. There has never really been another artist, at least with her level of fame and power, that has used their platform like this. This is why she is who she is. Still to this day there’s so many causes she’s is a voice for and she has become hated for it by many but she has always stood up for what she’s believed in. Incredible woman. Nobody like her and nobody will ever be like her again. She’s kind of the last of the true music icons.
Aww, you're very kind - Thank you so much! ❤️❤️
"There has never really been another artist, at least with her level of fame and power, that has used their platform like this. This is why she is who she is. Still to this day there’s so many causes she’s is a voice for and she has become hated for it by many but she has always stood up for what she’s believed in. Incredible woman. Nobody like her and nobody will ever be like her again. She’s kind of the last of the true music icons."
Very well said! ❤️
As someone in my 40's, I love that someone that knows what was going on can articulate what was going on and how brave it was.
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There’s an interview special with Matt lauer on UA-cam where she explains why she pulled it.
Knew this one would be intense but you broke it down beautifully. The glamourization and commodidization of war.
Brenda's mature perspective (i think we're probably about the same age) and remembering the general sentiment at that time really helps in unpacking all the layers here and realizing the outrage this would have engendered.
Madonna said the fact that she now had her children's safety to consider was what made her decide to pull the video....an unprecedented move for an artist who'd never censored herself before.
Thank you! ❤️❤️
"Madonna said the fact that she now had her children's safety to consider was what made her decide to pull the video....an unprecedented move for an artist who'd never censored herself before."
It's so heartbreaking that the political climate caused her to fear for the safety of her children.
Es una de las canciones más fuerte para mí, líricamente hablando.
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Wow! I never seen the full uncut video before until now. So good! Wow!!!!
I became a fan of Madonna because of this song. 😢
Girls, I know you normally react to singles and music vídeos, but PLEASE listen to Nothing Fails for this album. It is one of the most beautiful of her songs
Big hugs to you! ❤️❤️
"Girls, I know you normally react to singles and music vídeos, but PLEASE listen to Nothing Fails for this album. It is one of the most beautiful of her songs"
Thank you for this suggestion! ❤️
Best song on American Life . "Nothing fails." (Cuz I've climbed the tree of life and that is why, no longer scared if I fall). Love that line.
Love your honest and raw reaction to the video. Personally, I've always watched this video and visited the American Life era with regret for Madonna b/c I truly feel that's when she lost the American audience. She lost them once after Erotica but got them back with Ray of Light and Music. Then she lost them again and really never recovered. But hearing your reaction truly makes me appreciate what Madonna was on a mission to do here and call out so much of what's "wrong" with our culture and government. She threw sales and charts out the window and just wanted to say what she felt needed to be said. And that's what has made Madonna Madonna and if anything, that will be her greatest legacy. She definitely fared better in her career after this period than the Chicks (formerly Dixie Chicks) did, but not nearly to the degree she had earlier in her career. And that will also be one of her greatest aspects of her legacy.
She actually got America back on her side during the Super Bowl. There was a lot of positivity and genuine appreciate for her at the time. Pre-orders for MDNA and the tour were huge but it was all for nothing. The album and tour were not well received by the general public. If the quality of the album were better and if the tour handled differently, it would have changed things moving forward in a more positive direction. There was zero interest for Rebel Heart as a result.
@@1UpJohn The only thing the Super Bowl performance proved was that there were a lot of folks who remembered her legacy and wanted to see her perform. Had nothing to do with her new material and that was proven by the failure of the MDNA album and all singles released.
Aww, thank you so much! ❤️❤️
"She threw sales and charts out the window and just wanted to say what she felt needed to be said."
Perfectly said.
Big hugs to you!❤️
One of her most underrated songs, videos and albums. IMO. This was genius and so ahead of it’s time ( at the time) the whole album was a masterpiece. Only Madonna would do something so controversial but always to get an important message across. She’s such an amazing artist ❤
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There is no other artist capable of transmitting so much information in such a direct, intelligent, impactful and courageous way as Madonna. Thank you ladies❤❤
Thank you! ❤️❤️
The Prophet Madonna.
Hye Brenda and Emily. There is no words to say.... Just our eyes for crying, just our brain for thinking.... and common sense.... This video was made in 2003.... but is still topical news...... Madonna is the first to show the reality of our world, of the dark side of humanity, and I love her so much for fighting against it. War is not a TV show we see seatting on a couch with popcorns, war is the most horrible invention who kills everyday innocents peoples.... Thank you Madonna, even if in 2003 the radio ignored you for that.... (American Life was a success in France, it was the country the album and singles works a lot.)
We are all human beings with two arms, two legs.... shouldn't matter the rest..... Sorry but I am always upset with this subject. With kindness and hugs for you, and all humanity. Your little frenchy!
Biggest hugs to you. ❤️❤️ It's true - There really aren't words to say. And it's incredibly heartbreaking that this is still so relevant today...
Thank you for being here - Sending so much love your way!❤️
NADONNA IS THE GREATEST BECAUSE SHE'S DIFFERENT AND UNIQUE ❤
Always loving your reactions! Brenda, your crying made me cry. So much to receive from that video and the message behind the lyrics. I’m still waiting on your audio reaction to her frozen remix!
Aww, thank you! And big hugs to you. ❤️❤️
"I’m still waiting on your audio reaction to her frozen remix!"
Can't wait to hear that one!❤️
Congratulations. Only some people really understood the meaning of this video/song. Once again (as always) this is one of the examples where Madonna was criticized because of the shock value, but you nailed it, you understand exactly what she mean with this 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
Thank you so much! ❤️❤️
This video is one of the most powerful things she has ever done. She rightly shows there are no winners in a war and it’s the innocent who suffer. I remember the era as well Brenda. It was at times chilling and society felt more desensitised to what was going on. Everyone is someone’s child/brother/sister when all is said and done. It felt and feels now as if we haven’t learned from WW1 and WW2 when we should know better. She pulled the video as was concerned about the impact on her children, the first and only time she has backed down. Her care for children shines and she is one of the few with the backbone to constantly highlight the human cost. Your review was very touching , considered and thoughtful. If only our politicians had your empathy x
Wars are fought in defense of life and liberty too.
Aww, thank you so much! ❤️❤️
"Everyone is someone’s child/brother/sister when all is said and done. It felt and feels now as if we haven’t learned from WW1 and WW2 when we should know better."
Very well said - Big hugs to you!❤️
Another great reaction ❤❤
Art is to provoke emotion , reaction and reflection.
She did make the right decision to withdraw this edit.
Great insights from two intelligent individuals ❤❤
Aww, thank you - Sending lots of love your way! ❤️
That was a really awesome response and conversation.
I’ve always felt this was one of the bravest anti-war messages ever put forward by anyone of any standing at that particular time. We, as bystanders, were all expected to just accept that the brutality of war was not just necessary, but should be somehow celebrated. It was deemed dutiful to be patriotic in supporting the atrocities of war…..yet unpatriotic to have the audacity to suggest that it was barbaric, and to be unsupportive in the killing and destruction of thousands of humans.
M presented perfectly the glamorisation of war, as well as it being sold to the masses as some kind of grotesque entertainment. The news outlets all vying to show us the very worse footage they could screen, in some twisted believe that everyone would be further encouraged to engage with the war mentality and crimes associated with it.
The song perfectly captures the sense of “where do I fit in ” and “who am I” if I think differently from the majority opinion.
M, as you know, was by this time in her career was well versed in being torn down for her freedom of speech, and sharing her personal perspective on issues she felt needed to be critiqued, by bringing a different perspective to the conversation. This time may not have been rewarding for M commercially……However, she showed her true metal yet again, in at least attempting to not just sit back and say nothing. For that she was/ is an absolute Heroine.
Thank you so much - Big hugs to you! ❤️❤️
"The song perfectly captures the sense of “where do I fit in ” and “who am I” if I think differently from the majority opinion."
So well said! ❤️
There are more director's cut versions of this video with different endings and edits. but you got the gist of it :) it's a tough video and song. i always tear up at the end of the video. and madonna's career in the u.s. was kind of over after this. half year earlier she had her last top 10 billboard 100 song with Die Another Day. After that she only achieved it thrice until today.
edit: not "over" as in "over" but chart wise it was, she was pulled off the radio and could never really recover from it. THANKS, BUSH
Entertainment becomes news and news become entertainment.
Amo o final desse clipe
This video has already gone down in history, for several reason, as it usually is with Madonna but it truly is a piece of art that says something extremely important.
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Hi ladies! This is what I love about her songs and videos, she is always pushing you to deal with some issues that we all see but nobody talks; is like talking about the elephant in the room…..
We were angry, sad and frustrated for what happened (the same we all are now) but the response, that war (and this war) is something that we could not be proud about.
Thank you so much for this Emily and Brenda!
Lots of love from Barcelona ❤
Thank you for being here - Much love to you! ❤️❤️
"This is what I love about her songs and videos, she is always pushing you to deal with some issues that we all see but nobody talks; is like talking about the elephant in the room….."
So true. ❤️
This was definitely an inflection point in her career, but she is who she is for what she do, not for what she doesn't do. Brave.
Great analysis ladies!!
Aww, thank you so much! ❤️❤️
I was already a huge fan at the time, so I was all in when this song and video was released and loved it but it was extremely divisive within the fanbase and created a backlash with the general public. It was a very rough time to be a fan. As you said, the cultural climate at the time was not open to anything anti-war. There's a lot of symbolism in the video and many missed it. Because the video was pulled, many people only knew Madonna did an "anti-American" video, so there was no context.
The absolute shock and confusion in your faces when she started rapping 😂
But jokes aside, the controversy and her subsequently having to pull out the video ended up proving the point that Madonna was trying to make in the first place: America’s view of war as something sacred and patriotic instead of barbaric and condemnable is as ludicrous as the reaction of the audience in the video’s fashion show.
And Brenda, as others have said here, we really appreciate your insightful commentary and how you wear your heart on your sleeve. That’s what makes your reactions so genuine. ❤
Aww, thank you - You're very kind! ❤️❤️
"The absolute shock and confusion in your faces when she started rapping"
😂😂
"...the controversy and her subsequently having to pull out the video ended up proving the point that Madonna was trying to make in the first place: America’s view of war as something sacred and patriotic instead of barbaric and condemnable is as ludicrous as the reaction of the audience in the video’s fashion show."
So well said!
Big hugs to you. ❤️
This is my favorite Madonna era and this was such a stark shift in her music. Because of this song, US radio stopped playing her music and hurt her image like you mentioned the Dixie Chicks. US radio never really supported her afterwards.
What an artist! 🔥
I appreciate the lady with the green sweater for their input.
Thank you! ❤️❤️
I dont think she should have pulled the video, it was a brilliant video that turned out to be totally true. It did completely hurt her career in America for daring to speak out. She pulled it because the war started and didnt want to upset the soldiers as she supports them, she just hated war, always has. She still does it today, shes more political than ever and thank god for it.
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I love how the electro-acoustic production on this record mirrors the "consumerism vs authenticity" theme of the lyrics. The whole album plays with that and it wasn't appreciated when it came out, critically or commercially. American Life is wholly underrated!
"I love how the electro-acoustic production on this record mirrors the "consumerism vs authenticity" theme of the lyrics."
Such a great observation! ❤️❤️
I’m speechless, I don’t know what to say, you’re right I need to watch it a few more times
Madonna was looking for a reaction like yours Brenda! Being moved to tears on what the political climate was at that time and making a huge statement about it. Thank you ladies for this wonderful in depth reaction. You two are the best!! ❤❤
They just get her. She is the artist meant for Brenda for sure. Intelligent, compasionate people get her message.
@@Marc-zi5cqNo shade to Emily then? 😂
Aww, thank you so much - You're very kind! ❤️❤️ Sending lots of love your way.
Shocking and moving. A great reaction as always … and you can imagine the concern for Madonna to pull a video off (I believe the concern was due to threats or safety of her children) so I respect that, but you know it’s got to be huge if Madonna, out of all artists pulls a video. This alum is actually one of my favourites, and there are some songs (not singles, sadly) that have her most honest and broken down haunting lyrics. I do hope at some stage you ladies can do full album reactions - this is an album you would want to hear. Sending you both light and love.
Aww, thank you so much - Sending lots of love and light right back to you! ❤️❤️
After we finish the journey through her singles discography, we're planning to go back and do deeper dives into the albums - Looking forward to it! ❤️
@@OurAnxiousReactions as are we!!! Enjoying this ride and glad to know it’s not stopping at singles!!
Here for this ❤
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The most important thing is at the expense of those who achieve the American dream
Hi I think many of us appreciate both of your thoughtful reactions to this polarizing video. ❤❤ Thanks also for being open minded . 🙂
Aww, thank you so much (and thank you for being here)! ❤️❤️
I can understand why you would not want to watch this video again, I could feel your emotional reaction to it. I was getting emotional listening to you. The song itself is amazing and I would encourage you just to listen to the song, so you can really absorb the lyrics without the distraction of the video. I have been waiting for you both to react to this Album, as it was controversial and divisive and she lost a lot of her US fans in response to this album from what I understand. Many radio stations stopped playing her as a result. As an Australian it was less divisive on a political level, however I think a lot of people did not like the style of this album or the political messages. I think they just found it too serious. Personally I think it’s a masterpiece. I agree that Madonna is being self critical as well as critiquing society’s values. I’m looking forward to your response to Hollywood. There are so many powerful and beautiful songs on this Album.
"I can understand why you would not want to watch this video again, I could feel your emotional reaction to it. I was getting emotional listening to you. The song itself is amazing and I would encourage you just to listen to the song, so you can really absorb the lyrics without the distraction of the video."
Aww, big hugs to you! ❤️❤️
And completely agree about listening to the song without the video - Thank you for that suggestion! ❤️
WellI was a little like Emily the first time I watched this, I didn't understand the whole context of the song and the video, but Brenda took it all in and was moved to tears 🥹 Great reaction. This was also Madonna's last album under her own record label "Maverick", the first one was Erotica, so I think she really did justice to all that creativity freedom.
Thank you! ❤️❤️ It was definitely a lot to process at once.
"This was also Madonna's last album under her own record label "Maverick", the first one was Erotica, so I think she really did justice to all that creativity freedom."
Thank you for sharing that info with us! ❤️
Before the Hollywood video you MUST WATCH this two specials.
The first is this intimate MTV concert where she sings songs from the American Life album and a classic. There’s is also an interesting interview inside and fans questions and more stuff. You need to watch this extended version from MTV 2 since she did one extra song and there is more stuff that wasn’t aired on the main MTV channel
ua-cam.com/video/bFgNT1xjCZo/v-deo.htmlsi=S-YNMNUqOyYtFwio
Then you have to watch this MTV Special where she talks about the American Life video and Kaballah
ua-cam.com/video/8g--MA-ufxI/v-deo.htmlsi=Pb9yZSmcZf7Sc0oI
How did you manage to put links in? I thought they stopped people doing it? Do I thought as I be numerous times in the last year but never gets into the comments.
@@softshallow7435 I just copy and paste
Thank you so much for the suggestions and links! ❤️❤️
@@OurAnxiousReactions a pleasure as always!
This album as a whole is so good
Can't wait to hear the rest of it! ❤️❤️
I believe that Brenda summarized everything about the American dream in a very simple way to understand. I love it when she says "fuck it", as if that was something that had been stored inside her for a long time and she needed to get out how much it bothered her. As for the video, it is more focused on the American military invasions and how this is destroying the rest of the world to support this American dream. At least that's how I get it. Hugs girls and I come here to ASK people not to release spoilers for the music videos before the react, please.
Big hugs to you too! ❤️❤️
"I love it when she says "fuck it", as if that was something that had been stored inside her for a long time and she needed to get out how much it bothered her."
Absolutely! That's exactly how it felt.
Thank you for being here with us! ❤️
Thanks for your heartfelt reaction. I believe Madonna retracted this video through fear of retaliation towards her children... as after 9/11 it was such a different time and the idea of being anti-patriotic was abhorrent to most. I think its the only time I can think of that Madonna has bowed down to the possibility of a negative reaction... but i totally get it!
The images of war and of children being caught up in it are still sadly so relevant today 😔
This video is still a great work of art as its makes us think... i always thought that this video was a commentary on life pre and post 9/11. That America viewed war as an insignificant thing until the granade (or 9/11) was dropped on its own soil. Thanks for your reaction which was as moving and thoughtful as ever. ❤❤
Thank you so much - Biggest hugs to you! ❤️❤️
"I believe Madonna retracted this video through fear of retaliation towards her children... as after 9/11 it was such a different time and the idea of being anti-patriotic was abhorrent to most. I think its the only time I can think of that Madonna has bowed down to the possibility of a negative reaction... but i totally get it!"
Her retraction of the video (and concern for her children) was completely understandable in that environment.
"The images of war and of children being caught up in it are still sadly so relevant today"
So true (and heartbreaking).
Sending lots of love your way! ❤️
Anti-war through and through, it was around the Iraq invasion and Madonna was effectively blacklisted for being anti-war, proved in case of Iraq like so many she was right, should never have been invaded. The song lyrics talk about how we strive for a perfect American Life but in reality it's not all it's cracked up to be
"The song lyrics talk about how we strive for a perfect American Life but in reality it's not all it's cracked up to be"
Well said! ❤️❤️
fue el primer album que compre de madonna y la conoci, es un buen album, las letrs son muy profundas y sus mensajes, madonna guapisima, una era dorada,, mis 16 años 2003, todo mundo discutia sobre este video y el sigueinte hollywood asi como el beso y la gira cuando se convierte en la mujer con lla gira mas taquillera, que año de triunfos
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There is a UA-cam created called Todd in the Shadows and he made a very good video about this album and about this song specifically.
Thank you so much for sharing this with us! ❤️❤️
Yaaay 🥳 American life era ! Have a fab time ladies - it’s going to be an awesome ride 🙌🏻 the album is one of her best , completely ahead of its time and well respected especially later on in her career. It’s a very important record. By the way I got down on the rabbit hole (😝) after the Madonna in matrix conversation found two version on which part she got offered.. version one was Trinity (!) played by Carrie-Anne Moss and in version two SWITCH popped up played by the brilliant Belinda Mcclory.. But really , only Madonna knows the answer as there’s no real trails in this investigation . Whatever I found are more likely speculations by fans and industry experts 😌🌷
"By the way I got down on the rabbit hole (😝) after the Madonna in matrix conversation found two version on which part she got offered.. version one was Trinity (!) played by Carrie-Anne Moss and in version two SWITCH popped up played by the brilliant Belinda Mcclory.. But really , only Madonna knows the answer as there’s no real trails in this investigation . Whatever I found are more likely speculations by fans and industry experts."
Thank you for going down that rabbit hole! It's fascinating to consider the possibilities (of what might have been)... Here's hoping she'll tell the story one day!
Big hugs to you! ❤️❤️
@@OurAnxiousReactions thank you , hugs back 🤗🌷🫶🏻
You should watch the interview and tv special where she speaks with Matt Lauer (eh, I know) about this video and the inspiration behind this song and album.
Thank you for the suggestion! ❤️❤️
This is actually the same time, same album that got Madonna pulled from the radio too. She never did achieve the same level of success that she had before this album. It's since been revelled in critical acclaim, but she took a massive hit. Don't get me wrong, she still continued to have MASSIVE success, but she struggled to get radio play, which impacted her ability to get the #1's she deserved. This album is a top 3 Madonna album for me.
Glad you got this one over with, you can relax now for a long time . So brave of her to do it even if it shocked us or not SOMEONE had to speak up, not only the Dixie Chicks but of course Madonna did and when she goes for it you know she totally does. In fact Its a shame that the original isnt available but the end was tongue in cheek sat front row President Bush look alike catches her hand grenade and lights Saddam Hussains Cigar with it then the screen goes Black. It was shown but then cut out to be less political. Then even this version she just didnt feel easy with it with death threats and her little kids. War for entertainment and money can make people a fortune, others make it in a different way but once youve got everything you want you still cant pay to stop wars when others are profiting. All you can do is rebel. So she does. The song ended up a flop in the US. No real video. Its actually a great song and video; just hard to handle. (love you guys x)
We love you too - Big hugs to you! ❤️❤️
"So brave of her to do it even if it shocked us or not SOMEONE had to speak up, not only the Dixie Chicks but of course Madonna did and when she goes for it you know she totally does."
You're so right - True art should shock us at times (and wake us up when we need it). ❤️
Great reaction.
Aww, thank you! ❤️❤️
I always think I see Sofia Loren in the crowd. Such a brave, brazen and bold video..
Girls please react to one of MTV's best specials where Madonna presents American Life MTV On Stage & On The Record
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At the end of this video a smirk George Bush look alike picks up the bomb and it's a lighter. People went after Madonna for her rapping but if you thinking about it Madonna rapped on Erotica. She has expressed no regrets since she was just being sarcastic . You ladies got it right. lot's of people just look at it as her looking for controversies . Love your comments, thank you. by, the way the Dixie chicks went after George Bush in a live concert . Remember, the twin towers had just gone down
Yeah…her rapping in this song was a great way to express her rage. She had appreciated Black culture and music growing up in Pontiac, MI and nearby Detroit with its large Black population and when she moved to NYC in the late 70s, rap/hip hop was on the rise coming out of the Bronx. It’s the innercity Black youth’s music genre to express their frustrations, anger, with their situation living in blighted ghettos plagued by poverty, drug use/dealing, gang violence, despair-it’s their way of “indicting” mainstream society for its seeming indifference, and their disdain for the police racial profiling of them resulting in many of them being arrested repeatedly and they’re having long RAP sheets( Record of Arrests and Prosecutions) for what they perceived as minor offenses (misdemeanors) and trumped up charges. Madonna had empathized with their plight-one reason behind her 1989 Like A Prayer video, or in 1994 when she released her video of Human Nature when she wore braided corn rows-a hairstyle popular among Black youth as an expression of defiance.
Aww, thank you so much - You're very kind! ❤️❤️
And thank you for being here and sharing your thoughts with us!
Solo Madonna podia darnos este tipo de video y aunque fue cancelado en su momento dijo muchas verdades que hasta el dia de hoy sigue sucediendo
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Jack Nicholson and Meryl streep.. is in the clip
The American life...is nothing what it seems....Madonna had BALLS to put this out and she risked her whole career for HER opinion. Back then everybody in the USA applauded Bush to invade Iraq...and her video was a mirror to that...to present the war on the catwalk and the stage and everybody is applauding the show....because also in real life eveybody was applauding Bush and the invasion...
Her songs and the album from then on, were pulled from the radio..from then on Madonna was kinda "csncelled" in the USA...but not in europe and with Confessions and Hung up she made a huge comeback in europe...but not in the USA...she could never recover in the USA from then on TILL the Superbowl in 2012 and her Mdna Tour...and America embraced her again.
Also, during "American life" she was living in england. So thats why the critisicm in the USA was even higher while the reviews in europe were much better. But still..the album didnt had huge sucess overall as i agree with the point..that with "War Subjects" you shouldnt make money. Like U2, Dixie Chicks, Bruce Springsteen...she was not alone with this kind of "Music Politics"....but we shouldnt forget that MADONNA always had political subjects in her songs, LGBTQ Subjects, femal pregnancy in Papa Dont Preach or Female Empowerment in Express Yourself ect ext...
Nontheless, the album grew on me in time, it had wonderful songs like Love Profusion or Mother and Father, X Static Process, Nothing Fails...
She did a similar video "shocker" with "God Control" from Madame X, which aswell is one of her most powerful clips about Gun Laws in the USA...HIGHLY recommend that one!
"The American life...is nothing what it seems....Madonna had BALLS to put this out and she risked her whole career for HER opinion. Back then everybody in the USA applauded Bush to invade Iraq...and her video was a mirror to that...to present the war on the catwalk and the stage and everybody is applauding the show....because also in real life eveybody was applauding Bush and the invasion..."
Such a great description of this video and message! ❤️❤️
"She did a similar video "shocker" with "God Control" from Madame X, which aswell is one of her most powerful clips about Gun Laws in the USA...HIGHLY recommend that one!"
Sounds incredible - Really looking forward it!
Big hugs to you!
The video and song were certainly in response to the post-9/11 world we lived in, and the reality of war for profit/hate for profit. Madonna's rap was her rattling off all of the blessings she'd been given in life, but refusing to be satisfied with simply having her success but ceasing to speak out against the atrocities being done in our names around the world. Its a powerful statement, and she absolutely owned it.
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She pulled the video because it was to be released the week we went to war. She did it out of respect to the military and their families.
Thank you for sharing that with us! ❤️❤️
She told the whole truth and got demonized for it.
along with all the other things that other viewers have said, here's another fun fact: every single choice and sound in this song was intentional. she intentionally sounds very robotic and a bit much on the autotune because she says that that's what everyone has become now and it's what music has become, and the famous rap part also was a poke that at the fact that everyone raps and you kind of need to rap nowadays to really make it. it's a very, very, very deep video and song and i love it
"here's another fun fact: every single choice and sound in this song was intentional. she intentionally sounds very robotic and a bit much on the autotune because she says that that's what everyone has become now and it's what music has become, and the famous rap part also was a poke that at the fact that everyone raps and you kind of need to rap nowadays to really make it."
Thank you for sharing that info with us! ❤️❤️ Love how every detail serves such an important purpose.
Living through the aftershock of 9/11 was so traumatizing. I was at a friends barbeque and they played 'Where were you when...?' and 9/11 came up. Everybody went through their stories and when they got to me I started telling my story as normal but found myself getting more and more upset and my voice got pitchy and higher. Before I know it, full blown tears started flowing. I was so embarrassed even though they assured me it was totally ok to respond like that.
I grew up in Allentown, PA. I was in the 8th grade and more and more kids were leaving throughout the day. By lunch time, the cafeteria was quieter than usual with half the kids gone. Teachers who were usually friendly were cold. By 8th period, we wanted answers. Then our principal, a normally emotionless, stoic woman, spoke over the intercom. "All after school activities are cancelled today. Planes have crashed..." Her voice broke and cut away. Realizing she had been crying, we turned to our teacher, Mrs. Quinter, who ironically was our history teacher. She then told us what horror took place. After a short pause of us taking in the information, some girls in our class started to freak out. You see, New York City is not too far from Allentown, PA at all. Many people would commute to work in the city by taking a charter bus. They were called Beiber Tourways. The bus station was located in Wescoesville, PA just across from Dorney Park and Wild Water Kingdom. I remember sitting on the red vinyl booths of the diner people ate at while waiting for their bus. People had these flip books that were monthly passes. The reason my classmates were freaking out was because their parents worked in the towers. So we were there all day with this information being kept from us only to be told at the last second. I'll never forget how my one classmate, Jaime P, reacted. She was a really pretty mixed girl and really tall. curly hair and very popular. She let out a weak cry, slowly brought her forehead down to her desk and outstretched her arms to the side, palms up and kept them there. She was unwillingly relinquishing any hope of their survival. Her older brother did not make it.
Thank you so much for taking the time to share your personal experience with us.❤️❤️
The memories you described are the kind that stay etched on your heart and last a lifetime - It's no wonder that recalling the events from that day would be an incredibly emotional experience for you.
Sending so much love and healing your way. ❤️
Hi ladies... I'm the 1st one ❤
Yay!! 🎉❤️❤️
I think it was a perfect example of numb Americans watching the horror that exists in the world and looking at it as a show rather than reality. Madonna is always thought provoking in her lyrics and visuals. She was really brave for putting this out at that time. It was a scary time in the US.
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This music video almost cancelled M in America. Radios stopped playing her, and its follow-up single was her first song to not chart at all in the US. I'm in Australia, we were critical of the knee-jerk "War on Terror" so it struck a chord here. I dont recall the revised video being played here, I think we still had the original video (but it ends with Bush lighting his cigar with the grenade-lighter, and kissing Saddam Hussein).
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Google "Madonna's American Life video: The Oral History" for a brilliant in-depth article about the making of this.
Thank you so much for sharing that info with us! ❤️❤️
You REALLY SHOULD listen to each new album BEFORE you watch the videos. That way, you’re not only giving yourself the opportunity to hear the lyrics and music separately but also giving yourself the chance to hear the songs that weren’t singles/videos.
Yes. I wish they had listened to the Ray of Light and Music albums before watching Drowned World Tour but they enjoyed it regardless.
It is a very aggressive music video weirdly hilarious and dark
A political and artistic response to the Bush government. This album is brilliant!!!
Hi, there are different versions of this video, my favorite is the one with Saddam and Bush. Madonna made several alternate endings to the video to get it aired, but when she received death threats for her children, she decided to withdraw the video. It was the first time this had happened.The video that was put in rotation was just Madonna singing with the background of all the flags of the world
Easily one of her best videos. It was directed by Jonas Åkerlund. I remember watching this 3 times in a row on MTV Latin America before it was pulled out. She received so much hate in the US during this era because of the anti-Bush message and everything about the war in 2003. People were so sensitive after the 911. She’s always been a visionary, ahead of its time messenger. Love this and I adore the single. Such a clever video showing awful war scenes and yet some news channels don’t have a problem with it. The intensity and message was clear.
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This video shows the insanity of war in general, with people in the audience laughing and applauding all the violence on the catwalk. The rest of the album is nothing like this, so deep and emotional. There were only a couple of video's made for this record, but 'Nothing Fails' which is fantastic and released as a single never had one unfortunately, such a great song, could have been a classic Madonna hit. My two other favorites of the album are non singles "X-tatic Process' and "Intervention'.
I feel bad that this song and video controversy turned away interest in listening to the full album because it's one of her strongest. Many beautiful love songs but you wouldn't know it from the album cover and first single.
"There were only a couple of video's made for this record, but 'Nothing Fails' which is fantastic and released as a single never had one unfortunately, such a great song, could have been a classic Madonna hit. My two other favorites of the album are non singles "X-tatic Process' and "Intervention'."
Can't wait to hear the rest of this album - Sounds like some wonderful songs are ahead! ❤️❤️
Hi Ladies.
Just a heads up. On the channel Alexandr Platonov - 1/2 hour behind the scenes is Madonna - S&S Tour
Very cool.
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Thank you for sharing that with us! ❤️❤️
@@OurAnxiousReactions You are very welcome. Hope your dealing with the heat well. I love the summer but the humidity is the worst. I want to move to Johnny Depp's Island. He's hardly ever there. I mean come on. 🏖️🩴🌊🍹🍸🍺🍷🧉🌞
The humidity here is unbelievable too. Can we go with you to the island? 😂🏝️🍹
@@OurAnxiousReactions Buying tickets to St. Baarts. Right now! We can catamaran over to Johnny's. 🏝️
Sounds like a perfect plan!! 🌴
It was definitelly a hard time.
Or you were with AMERICA or AGAINST.
Love this song and video.
WAR is CRUEL
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If you wanna have more info on this period, there are many interviews available. This interview here is one of the best regarding the release of the album and the pulling of the video ua-cam.com/video/h-qcpidludY/v-deo.html
Thank you so much for the suggestion (and link)! ❤️❤️
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Well, she did vote for Al Gore 🤷
This one was inspired by the Bush administration. Wait til you see this in the Reinvention tour!
I like when Madonna gets political. No Fear.
Great review ladies. Have an awesome day! ♥️
Edit: Dixie Chicks dared to speak out against Bush’s war in Iraq
Aww, thank you! ❤️❤️
"Wait til you see this in the Reinvention tour!"
Can't even imagine what she does with this one on tour - Excited to see it!
Have a wonderful weekend! ❤️
It’s much more calmer in the Reinvention Tour.
@@williammarloncoup1681 Yes, I know. That’s the point.
Madonna was getting threats from the hard right , endangering her husband and two kids. She made the video before the decision to go to war. I think had she still was a single woman, she would not have pulled the video.
Really good reaction you should react to Hollywood from the album and what you have to do to become part of it similar feel but very good
Thank you so much! ❤️❤️
Strongly recommend the Matt Lauer interview for an in depth discussion of the video.
I actually think the follow up is a much better song. And the video is glorious. EDIT Look out for Italian icon Sophia Loren in the audience of the American Life video, unless those scenes were removed. I can't remember off hand.
"Look out for Italian icon Sophia Loren in the audience of the American Life video, unless those scenes were removed."
We'll have to go back and look for her - Thank you for letting us know! ❤️❤️
@@OurAnxiousReactions I just rewatched and yes Sophia is there. I tried to get the tike stamp thing but the Sun is shining right in my mince pies hehehehe
Hey ladies, love your "M" reactions. So raw and honest. After you watch the videos for Hollywood and Love Profusion, you MUST watch her documentary "I'm going to tell you a secret". Essentially it's the followup to "Truth or Dare". I found a link here on UA-cam but Im not sure if it will still be working by the time you get to it. I'm sure you can find it online somewhere like Amazon or something: ua-cam.com/video/CE2hBeGtoZ8/v-deo.html
And after you watch the documentary, THEN I suggest watching the Reinvention Tour in full. The tour was never officially released on video, but this is probably the best compilation edit on UA-cam: ua-cam.com/video/AZLgEzuDBsk/v-deo.html
Have fun, American Life is one of my favorite eras. Album was truly experimental. Folk Electronica!
Aww, you're very sweet - Thank you! ❤️❤️
And thank you so much for the suggestions (and links) - We're very excited to see the rest of this era!❤️
Many people would agree M’s career is divided pre American life and post. Many here are commenting accurately that she was quietly banned. Hits she has after that would have been #1 got zero airplay. She was blacklisted as a result of this era but she was also 45. Ageism got strong at this point.
Not entirely true. Confessions broke world records.
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And also her 2008/9 Sticky&Sweet Tour were massively attended and so did ticket revenue.