Written by: Gerry Beckley & Dewey Bunnell
Released: 1982
US Charts: #8
UK Charts: N/A
Other Charts: N/A
It’s amazing how your interpretation of a song can be very different from what it really is about, yet upon discovering this, you choose to stick to your original interpretation because it what gave the song meaning and a special significance for you. The first time I heard the America song “You Can Do Magic”, it was at a seminar about personal development and as a result, I interpreted the song as being a song of encouragement that anyone can do ‘magic’ and achieve anything they want in life if you put your head to it. However, the song was not really about this at all.
Just before writing this post I looked up the exact lyrics of the song and realized how wrong my interpretation was all this time. And I ended up pretty disappointed. In reality, the song deals with the protagonist who feels lost and down, and whose life completely changes when he meets the girl of his dreams. The “you can do magic” part is actually addressed to this girl and how her presence can dramatically change the way he’s feeling. As you can see, both interpretations are very different.
Nevertheless, my original interpretation will remain with me because this is in my opinion a great encouraging. In a time where many people are in doubt about their futures and their capabilities, this song is a constant reminder that anyone can do anything if they really want it. Personal development is one of my other passions apart from music, and the role that music can play in putting people in the right state of mind should not be underestimated.
Focusing on the band America, “You Can Put Magic” was their first top 10 hit in 7 years and peaked at number 8 on the Billboard Charts. America are probably more well-known for their 70s hits “The Horse With No Name” and Sister Golden Hair”, making this song one of their most forgotten classics. I hope you appreciate this great motivational song as much as I do.
You can access lyrics here.
You can access chords here.
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