US Forces

Midnight Oil

About US Forces

"US Forces" is the first single released from Australian rock band Midnight Oil's fourth studio album, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1. The song, which denounces US military intervention in foreign affairs, charted at no. 20 in Australia. The music video was filmed in the Central Coast of New South Wales at the Vales Point Power Station, Mannering Park. In January 2018, as part of Triple M's "Ozzest 100", the 'most Australian' songs of all time, "US Forces" was ranked number 55.  


Year:
1983
4:05
76 
#1

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US Forces give the nod, it's a setback for your country
Bombs and trenches all in rows, bombs and threats still ask for more
Divided world the CIA, who controls the issue
You leave us with no time to talk, you can write your assessment

Sing me songs of no denying, seems to me too many trying
Waiting for the next big thing

Will you know it when you see it, high risk children dogs of war
Now market movements call the shots, business deals in parking lots
Waiting for the meat of tomorrow

Sing me songs

Everyone is too stoned to start emission
People too scared to go to prison
We're unable to make decision
Political party line don't cross that floor
Lt. Ron Hubbard can't save your life
Superboy takes a plutonium wife
In the shadow of Ban The Bomb we live

Sing me songs

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Midnight Oil

Midnight Oil (also known informally as "The Oils" to fans), were an Australian alternative rock band from Sydney originally performing as Farm from 1972 with drummer Rob Hirst, bass guitarist Andrew James and keyboard player/lead guitarist Jim Moginie. While vocalist Peter Garrett was studying at Australian National University in Canberra, he answered an advertisement for a spot in Farm, and by 1975 the band was touring the east coast. By late 1976, Garrett moved to Sydney to complete his law degree, and Farm changed its name to Midnight Oil by drawing the name out of a hat. more »

2 fans

Written by: JAMES MOGINIE, MARTIN ROTSEY, PETER GARRETT, PETER GIFFORD, ROBERT HIRST

Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


20 facts about this song

Song Information
"US Forces" is a song by Australian rock band Midnight Oil, from their fifth studio album, "10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1", released in 1982.
Chart Performance
The track reached number twenty on the Australian Kent Music Report Singles Chart.
Geography Influence
The lyrics of "US Forces" are largely influenced by social political issues in Australia, particularly surrounding the presence of US military forces in the country.
Track Meaning
The song is often interpreted as a critique of American interventionism and the militaristic attitude of the Reagan administration.
Vocalist Input
Lead vocalist Peter Garrett was an active participant in Australian politics, and his socio-political beliefs are said to significantly influence the lyrics of the song.
Band’s Stance
The members of Midnight Oil were known for their political activism, with "US Forces" being one of many songs where they articulate their objections to various issues.
Composition
"US Forces" is a rock song featuring energetic drumming from Rob Hirst and powerful, distinctive vocals from Peter Garrett.
Controversy
The song's politically charged lyrics caused some controversy upon its release, particularly in America where the band was attempting to expand their audience.
Legacy & Activism
It continues to be one of Midnight Oil’s most recognized songs and a bold testament to their constant activism through music.
Live Performances
"US Forces" is frequently performed live by the band, and its charged, energetic delivery makes it a beloved staple among fans.
Video
The music video for the song showcases the band's powerful live performances, fused with imagery suggestive of the song's political themes.
Band Information
"US Forces" is a song by the popular Australian rock band, Midnight Oil.
Album Details
The song is from their fifth studio album, "10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1" released in 1982.
Chart Performance
"US Forces" was released as the second single from the album and reached No. 20 on the Australian Kent Music Report Singles Chart.
Lyrics Meaning
The lyrics of "US Forces" are known to be politically charged, protesting against U.S. foreign policy, particularly its military interventions.
The Songwriter
Like most Midnight Oil songs, the lead vocalist Peter Garrett contributed to the songwriting. Garrett later became a prominent Australian politician.
Noteworthy Performances
The band performed "US Forces" live at the closing ceremony of the 2000 Sydney Olympics, a performance remembered for its political statement, with Peter Garrett famously wearing a shirt with the word "sorry" printed on it.
Music Video
The music video for "US Forces" features the band playing in a desert landscape, which is interspersed with images of military personnel and weapons. This enhanced the song's overall anti-war message.
Critiques & Reviews
"US Forces" is often praised by critics for its passionate, powerful commentary on American politics, combined with its catchy rhythms and memorable melody.
Continual Relevance
Even decades after its release, "US Forces" continues to be relevant as it is often discussed and referred to in conversations about war, foreign policies, and political agenda.

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