Ramones - My Brain Is Hanging Upside Down (Bonzo Goes to Bitburg) Lyrics

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What inspired the Ramones to write 'My Brain Is Hanging Upside Down (Bonzo Goes to Bitburg)'?

   The song was inspired by U.S. President Ronald Reagan's controversial visit to a German military cemetery in Bitburg, where Waffen-SS soldiers were buried. Joey Ramone, who was particularly affected as a Jewish man, felt strongly against Reagan's actions and wanted to express his outrage.

2. Why was the title of the song changed from 'Bonzo Goes to Bitburg' to 'My Brain Is Hanging Upside Down'?

   The title was changed to 'My Brain Is Hanging Upside Down (Bonzo Goes to Bitburg)' at the insistence of guitarist Johnny Ramone. Johnny, a staunch supporter of Reagan, objected to the original title, which referred to Reagan mockingly as 'Bonzo,' after the chimpanzee in the film 'Bedtime for Bonzo.'

3. Who are the credited writers of 'My Brain Is Hanging Upside Down (Bonzo Goes to Bitburg)'?

   The song was co-written by Joey Ramone, Dee Dee Ramone, and their producer Jean Beauvoir. While Joey is often credited as the primary author, there have been claims that Dee Dee and Beauvoir were equally involved in the lyrics and musical contributions.

4. Was 'My Brain Is Hanging Upside Down (Bonzo Goes to Bitburg)' released as a single in the United States?

   No, the song was not initially released as a single in the United States. It was issued as a single in the UK by Beggars Banquet Records in 1985. However, it became a hit on U.S. college radio as an import and was later included in the Ramones' 1986 album 'Animal Boy.'

5. What is the significance of the phrase 'Bonzo goes to Bitburg' in the song?

   The phrase 'Bonzo goes to Bitburg' is a critical and mocking reference to President Ronald Reagan. 'Bonzo' refers to the chimpanzee from the 1951 film 'Bedtime for Bonzo,' in which Reagan starred. The phrase highlights Reagan's controversial visit to the Bitburg cemetery.

6. How did the song fare in terms of critical reception?

   While not a commercial success, the song was critically well-received. It ranked fifth in the 1985 Pazz & Jop Critics Poll by The Village Voice. Critics praised its emotional depth, with some calling it the Ramones' best work and Joey Ramone's greatest vocal performance.