About the song
Foreigner – Dirty White Boy: A Rock Anthem with a Rebellious Heart
Few bands captured the essence of arena rock in the late 70s and early 80s quite like Foreigner. With their potent blend of hard-hitting riffs, soaring vocals, and undeniably catchy melodies, they churned out a string of hits that dominated radio waves and filled stadiums worldwide. And while “Juke Box Hero” and “I Want to Know What Love Is” might be their most commercially successful tracks, “Dirty White Boy” holds a special place in the hearts of many Foreigner fans. Released in 1979 as the lead single from their album Head Games, this track is a raw, energetic burst of rock and roll that perfectly encapsulates the band’s signature sound.
“Dirty White Boy” is a song that grabs you from the first driving chord. Mick Jones’s guitar riff is an instant classic, a bluesy, swaggering hook that sets the tone for the whole track. The rhythm section, anchored by the powerful drumming of Dennis Elliott and the solid bass lines of Ed Gagliardi, provides an irresistible groove that makes you want to move. And then there’s Lou Gramm’s voice – a force of nature that delivers the lyrics with grit and passion.
But what makes “Dirty White Boy” more than just a great rock song is its lyrical content. It’s a song about rebellion, about breaking free from societal expectations and living life on your own terms. The “dirty white boy” in the song is an outsider, a rebel who doesn’t care what others think. He’s driven by his desires, his passions, and he’s not afraid to go after what he wants. There’s a sense of freedom and defiance in the lyrics that resonated with a generation of young people who were looking to shake off the constraints of the past.
“Dirty White Boy” is also notable for its production. Roy Thomas Baker, known for his work with Queen, brings a polished, almost theatrical feel to the track. The song is layered with harmonies, guitar textures, and subtle keyboard flourishes that add depth and richness to the sound. It’s a testament to the band’s musicality and Baker’s production prowess that “Dirty White Boy” still sounds fresh and vibrant decades after its release.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of Foreigner or just discovering their music, “Dirty White Boy” is a must-listen. It’s a classic rock anthem that captures the spirit of a generation, a song that celebrates individuality and the pursuit of passion. So turn up the volume, let the music take over, and experience the raw power of Foreigner at their best.
Video
Lyrics
Hey, baby, if you’re feeling down
I know what’s good for you all day
Are you worried what your friends see?
And will it ruin your reputation loving me?
‘Cause I’m a dirty white boy
Yeah, a dirty white boy
A dirty white boy
Don’t drive no big black car
Don’t like no Hollywood movie star
You want me to be true to ya
Don’t give a damn what I do to ya
I’m just a dirty white boy (dirty white boy)
Dirty white boy (dirty white boy)
Dirty white boy
Dirty white boy
Well, I’m a dirty white boy (dirty white boy)
Dirty white boy (dirty white boy)
Yeah, dirty white boy
A dirty white boy
I’ve been in trouble since I don’t know when
I’m in trouble now
And I know somehow
I’ll find trouble again
I’m a loner, but I’m never alone
Every night I get one step closer to the danger zone
‘Cause I’m a dirty white boy (dirty white boy)
Yeah, dirty white boy (dirty white boy)
I’m a dirty white boy
Dirty white boy
C’mon, c’mon, boy (dirty white boy)
White boy (dirty white boy)
I’m a dirty white boy
A dirty white boy
Hey, I’m a dirty white boy (dirty white boy)
Yeah, I’m a dirty white boy (dirty white boy)
Dirty white boy
Yeah