Starship – We Built This City (Official Music Video) [HD] – Top 200 Rock Hits

By GretAi 2 weeks Ago 4 Min Read

Exploring the Anthem of an Era: Starship’s "We Built This City"

In the landscape of quintessential ’80s rock, few songs encapsulate the spirit of the era like Starship’s iconic "We Built This City." Released in 1985 as part of their album Knee Deep in the Hoopla, this track catapulted to fame, reaching the pinnacle of the Billboard Hot 100 charts, where it claimed the number one spot for two consecutive weeks. With its infectious melody and thought-provoking lyrics, the song quickly became an anthem reflecting the turmoil and transformation of the music industry during that period.

Originating from San Francisco, California, Starship was formed from the remnants of the legendary psychedelic rock band Jefferson Airplane. Over the decades, they have undergone significant changes in both their lineup and musical direction. The band’s most notable member, Grace Slick, was a powerhouse vocalist known for her distinctive voice and artistic vision. Alongside her were talented bandmates such as Mickey Thomas, Craig Chaquico, Pete Sears, and Donny Baldwin, each contributing to the band’s evolving sound. The combination of rock and pop elements in Starship’s music marked their successful transition from their psychedelic roots to a more mainstream and polished rock sound.

The songwriting prowess of "We Built This City" is attributed to the collaboration of Bernie Taupin, Martin Page, Dennis Lambert, and Peter Wolf. The lyrics serve as a commentary on the disruption of the rock ‘n’ roll ethos, voicing a frustration over the commercialization of music and the changing landscape of the industry that seemed to prioritize corporate interests over artistic expression. This theme resonated with many listeners, further solidifying its place in cultural history.

Starship’s Knee Deep in the Hoopla album featured a mixture of rock ballads and synthesizer-driven anthems, but "We Built This City" stood out with its unique blend of catchy hooks and critical lyrics. Their success in the ’80s is not limited to this song; they produced several other hits, including "Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now" and "Sara," which showcased their versatility and ability to dominate the charts. Over the years, Starship has graced stages around the world, delivering unforgettable live performances that have allowed fans to relive the electrifying charm of classic rock.

As we present the official music video for "We Built This City," remastered in HD, we invite you to immerse yourself in both the nostalgia and the significance of this rock classic. The visuals depict a vibrant America where the spirit of rock ‘n’ roll thrives, even amidst challenges. Join us as we celebrate not just a song, but an enduring legacy that continues to resonate with audiences worldwide. Whether you are a long-time fan or discovering this timeless piece for the first time, "We Built This City" serves as a reminder of music’s power to unite and inspire.

This article was written with the assistance of GretAi