The opening lines of Dubioza Kolektiv’s classic song are straightforward: “I am from Bosnia; take me to America.” The band has reimagined this song to craft a viral anthem supporting Bosnia-Herzegovina’s World Cup dreams. Originally called “USA,” the song has been given a fresh identity as “I Am From Bosnia, Take Me to America.” This new version is resonating with fans as they rally behind their nation’s soccer ambitions.
Before Bosnia’s upcoming match against Canada, band members met with The Associated Press in Sarajevo. They filmed the video for their rebranded track in this locale. In under three weeks, the video celebrating soccer’s grassroots appeal has amassed nearly 2 million views on YouTube. This is alongside the 26 million views the original “USA” has garnered since its release in 2011.
“This song has taken on new life, undergoing multiple transformations over the years,” shared Vedran Mujagić, bassist of Dubioza Kolektiv. He added, “It originally offered a satirical view on immigration and the American Dream but has evolved into an anthem of hope for our national soccer aspirations.”
For Bosnia-Herzegovina, this marks only the second World Cup appearance, a feat once considered unlikely given the strong competition. A late goal against Wales and a decisive penalty shootout against Italy enabled Bosnia’s qualification. The band’s surprise grew when fans brandished banners with their song lyrics, treating them as a motivational chant.
“Initially, it began as a joke, but it’s heartening to see supporters give new meaning to our song,” keyboardist Brano Jakubović remarked. “The fans’ adoption of this song has allowed it to become their own, no longer merely ours.”
A Song for the People
The original “USA” is energetic and engaging. However, the enthusiasm of the protagonist quickly sours into disappointment with life outside the Balkans. In the updated version, lyrics have shifted to fit a soccer anthem theme. While “USA” was in English, the new track is primarily in Bosnian, catering to the local audience.
Jakubović noted, “My favorite part addresses a historical trauma, referencing a controversial goal against Nigeria during World Cup 2014.”
Since gaining independence in 1992, Bosnia has faced ongoing challenges including interethnic conflict and massacres like Srebrenica. Despite these hurdles, soccer is uniting people in Bosnia more than ever.
As the team embarks on their World Cup journey in Canada, they establish their base camp in Utah, USA. The group stage matches against Switzerland and Qatar will take place in the U.S. Many players have roots in the U.S. or hail from the diaspora.
Mujagić pointed out, “These players come from families who sought better lives abroad. Our song hits differently for them because they’ve lived these experiences.”
The original message of seeking new opportunities while acknowledging potential challenges abroad still resonates. Bosnians continue to face adversities and adapt to new environments.
In St. Louis, which hosts a significant Bosnian community, Admir Hodzic of BH Loyals spoke of the emotional impact of “USA.”
“Every Bosnian here can connect with that song; it portrays a true narrative,” Hodzic stated. “We face opportunities but also need resilience to overcome difficult times.”
Dubioza Kolektiv’s anthems are a staple at matches, binding the community with their powerful lyrics. While the newer version is popular, fans often revert to the familiar “USA,” deeply ingrained in their memories and emotions.