Music Monday: “R.O.C.K. in the USA” – John Mellencamp
Posted By RichC on April 7, 2025
This week, I’m cranking up the volume with John Mellencamp’s 1985 hit “R.O.C.K. in the USA,” a spirited salute to the rock vibes of the 1960s.
The song was released as the third single from his album Scarecrow, this track climbed to #2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and #6 on the Top Rock Tracks chart—proof it struck a chord with fans. It was subtitled “A Salute to 60’s Rock,” the song is “packed with nostalgic nods, including a clear riff reminiscent of The Troggs’ “Wild Thing.” Mellencamp laid it down at Belmont Mall in Belmont, Indiana, alongside his talented crew: Kenny Aronoff, Toby Myers, Mike Wanchic, Larry Crane, John Cascella, and Sarah Flint. Together, they crafted a sound that’s equal parts tribute and pure Mellencamp energy.” (according to Brave Leo AI). 
| John Mellencamp – “R.O.C.K in the U.S.A.” | 1985 |
“R.O.C.K. in the USA” has since found a home on compilations like The Best That I Could Do 1978–1988 (1997) and Words & Music: John Mellencamp’s Greatest Hits (2004), cementing its status as a fan favorite. Fun fact: it even got a shoutout during World Cup USA ’94, hyping up the U.S. team’s qualification.
So, for this Music Monday, let’s tip our hats to Mellencamp’s rockin’ tribute to an era that still echoes through the airwaves.
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