In the early Seventies, the band switched to hard rock and had its first successes, including a brace of Top 40 hits. After original singer Veerman left and drummer Keizer took his place behind the microphone, the band made a musical U-turn and opted for commercial radio pop, adding female co-vocalist Annie Schilder and laying the foundation for their status as the most popular Dutch band ever (in terms of hit singles and albums). BZN has had over 50 hits in the Dutch hit parade to date.
BZN's claim to fame started with the song "Mon Amour" (1976), which held the #1 hit parade ranking for over 5 weeks. Outside of the Netherlands the band has had some success as well, amongst which several hits in South Africa (such as "Yeppa" in 1990) and minor successes with their French-language songs in Canada.
Through the years there have been many lineup changes, the most important of which have been the departure of Schilder in 1984 (replaced by Carola Smit) and in 1988 of the brothers Cees and Thomas Tol (keyboards), who until then had been responsible for most of the music and lyrics. The band remained nevertheless successful, making their last major change in strategy when they decided to write in Dutch instead of English as of 2003.
BZN are also responsible for the initial success of singer Jan Smit (singer), who was discovered by BZN at the age of 10 and went on to have pop and schlager successes in The Netherlands, Germany and Belgium.
On February 15 2006, BZN announced they would do one final tour and then call it quits. This goodbye tour is scheduled to last until June 2007.
America
BZN Lyrics
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On the Seventh Avenue
I walk around and think about
The good and the bad you do
The strongest man here will survive
And the weakest he may fall
But even though I think you are
'Cause I believe in America
Dreams come true in America
Sing it with the band
We believe in America
Dreams come true in America
Sing it with the band
You walk around in Central Park
On a brandnew summerday
But don't you be there late at night
'Cause they take your things away
Where you can see the moviestars
And actors in a play
It's all about to happen there
On a normal American day
'Cause I believe in America
Dreams come true in America
Sing it with the band
We believe in America
Dreams come true in America
Sing it with the band
You walk around in Central Park
On a brandnew summerday
But don't you be there late at night
'Cause they take your things away
Where you can see the moviestars
And actors in a play
It's all about to happen there
On a normal American day
'Cause I believe in America
Dreams come true in America
Sing it with the band
We believe in America
Dreams come true in America
Sing it with the band
The lyrics to BZN's song "America" describe the personal experiences of the songwriter walking around New York City late at night, contemplating the good and bad aspects of America. The lyrics highlight the fact that even in a country that is thought to be the strongest, the weakest person can fall. But despite this, the songwriter believes that America is the greatest of all nations, and the place where dreams can come true if you work hard enough. The song is an ode to the American dream, and the belief that anything is possible in America.
The lyrics also touch on the darker side of America, warning the listener to be careful walking around Central Park at night to avoid getting robbed. However, the song emphasizes that even with this potential danger, America is still a desirable place to be, with opportunities to see movie stars and actors in plays. The repetition of the phrase "Dreams come true in America" reinforces the idea that the country is a place of endless possibilities.
Line by Line Meaning
New York City late at night
The song begins with a description of New York City at night, implying that the city is full of hustle and bustle and excitement in the darkness.
On the Seventh Avenue
The singer is on Seventh Avenue in New York, a famous street that is known for its theaters, restaurants, and shopping.
I walk around and think about the good and the bad you do
The singer walks around the city and thinks about the good and bad things that people do, perhaps reflecting on the duality of the American experience.
The strongest man here will survive
The singer reflects on the dog-eat-dog nature of American life, where only the strong survive.
And the weakest he may fall
In stark contrast, the weakest individuals may not be able to make it in America, and may fall from grace.
But even though I think you are the greatest of them all
Despite the challenges that are faced in America, the singer proclaims his belief that it is still the greatest country in the world.
'Cause I believe in America
The chorus begins, with the singer stating his belief in America and how it can make dreams come true.
Dreams come true in America
The singer continues to promote America as a place where people's dreams can come true, and where anything is possible.
Sing it with the band
The chorus continues, encouraging listeners to sing along and demonstrate their love for America.
You walk around in Central Park
The song returns to a description of New York City, with the singer describing Central Park and all it has to offer.
On a brandnew summerday
The singer describes a perfect summer day in Central Park, highlighting the beauty and liveliness of the city.
But don't you be there late at night
However, the singer cautions listeners not to be in Central Park late at night, implying that the city can be dangerous after dark.
'Cause they take your things away
The singer warns that being in Central Park late at night can lead to theft or mugging.
Where you can see the moviestars and actors in a play
Despite the potential dangers of being out in the city, the singer promotes the entertainment industry and all the famous people that live and work in America.
It's all about to happen there on a normal American day
The song concludes, emphasizing that America is a place where anything can happen, even on a regular day.
Contributed by Joseph J. Suggest a correction in the comments below.