TOM PETTY & THE HEARTBREAKERS - AMERICAN GIRL

Released: February 1977

Charted:  UK: #40 

"American Girl" is a rock anthem written by Tom Petty and recorded by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers for their debut album in 1976. While it initially didn't chart in the US, it reached No. 40 in the UK in 1977. A re-release in 1994 as part of Petty's Greatest Hits album revived its popularity. Despite modest chart success, "American Girl" emerged as one of Petty's most beloved tracks, earning acclaim as one of the best rock songs ever.

Tom Petty reflected on "American Girl," noting that he composed it in his apartment in Encino, situated near the freeway where the passing cars resembled ocean waves. This inspired the lyric about waves crashing on the beach. He described how the words flowed effortlessly, marking the beginning of his exploration into themes of longing and the pursuit of something greater in life.

Mike Campbell clarified the meaning behind "American Girl," emphasizing that despite misconceptions about its lyrics, it's fundamentally a love song with Florida imagery. He highlighted that the line "if she had to die trying" is often misinterpreted as alluding to suicide when, in fact, it's about the protagonist's determination. Additionally, he mentioned that the song was recorded on the 4th of July, pondering if this influenced Petty's inspiration to write about an American girl.

On September 25, 2017, Tom Petty gave his last concert at the legendary Hollywood Bowl, closing his set with "American Girl." Petty died a week later at UCLA Santa Monica Hospital on October 2, 2017 after cardiac arrest, making his most recognized song the last one he performed while alive.