St. Vincent delivered a stunning cover of David Bowie’s “Young Americans” on *The Late Show with Stephen Colbert*. The performance aired on Wednesday night. Artist Annie Clark made the iconic track her own with a rock-forward arrangement.
She also updated a key lyric for the modern era. This shift turned a classic commentary on American politics into a poignant statement for today’s audience.
A Rock Rendition With Modern Political Resonance
St. Vincent’s version traded Bowie’s original soul-disco sound for gritty guitar. Her intense vocals and dramatic delivery captivated the studio audience. She performed in signature black gloves and a cadet cap.
The most notable change came during the song‘s historical reference. Bowie’s 1975 line asked, “Do you remember President Nixon?” Clark powerfully substituted “President Biden” into the lyric.
This update connects the song’s themes of disillusionment to the current political climate. According to Rolling Stone, the cover was performed earlier at a Love Rocks charity event. The Colbert performance allowed a national audience to witness her reinterpretation.
The Artist’s Personal Connection and Dream Collaborators
In an interview before playing, Clark explained her deep connection to the song. She called it the only track that makes her “break down and cry.” Her emotional delivery supported this heartfelt claim.
Stephen Colbert also asked which artists she’d like to hear cover her own work. Clark gave a surprising and perfect answer. She named neo-soul icon Erykah Badu as her top choice.
“We’re both from Dallas,” Clark noted. She revealed she has repeatedly tried to befriend Badu without success. She also mentioned rapper Doechii and the legendary post-punk band The Slits.
Clark called The Slits’ cover of “I Heard It Through the Grapevine” her all-time favorite. This admiration highlights her eclectic taste and influences. The performance reinforces St. Vincent’s status as a fearless and inventive musical voice.
St. Vincent’s cover of “Young Americans” proves classic art can find new relevance. Her bold lyric change and powerful delivery created a memorable late-night moment. This performance will cement her interpretation in the modern Bowie canon.
Dropping this nugget your way
What lyric did St. Vincent change in the Bowie cover?
She changed “Do you remember President Nixon?” to “President Biden.” This updates the song’s political commentary for a contemporary audience. The change was a clear highlight of her performance.
Why did St. Vincent choose to cover this song?
She told Colbert it’s the only song that makes her break down and cry. She also performed it previously at a Love Rocks charity event. The track holds deep personal significance for her.
Who does St. Vincent want to cover her songs?
Her top choice is fellow Dallas artist Erykah Badu. She also mentioned rapper Doechii and the band The Slits. Clark has tried to connect with Badu multiple times without a response.
How was her arrangement different from Bowie’s original?
She used a guitar-driven, rock-oriented sound instead of the original’s soul and funk style. Her vocal delivery was more intense and operatic. The overall feel was distinctly her own.
Where else has St. Vincent performed recently?
She played a six-song set at Rolling Stone’s holiday party earlier this week. That performance featured her own songs, including “…At the Holiday Party.” Her schedule remains busy and varied.
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