After the invasion of Iraq started, Madonna cancelled the release of the original music video, because of the political climate of the country at the time, and released an alternative version, featuring her in front of a backdrop of flags from around the world.
It was written and produced by Madonna and Mirwais Ahmadzaï; the lyrics to "American Life" feature violent transitions and a political and religious view from Madonna.
"American Life" was panned by music critics, with Billboard criticizing Madonna's rapping, and Blender naming it as the ninth worst song of all time.
"American Life" reached number one in Canada, Denmark, Italy, Japan and Switzerland, and the top ten in Australia.
In Australia the song was certified gold by the Australian Recording Industry Association (ARIA).