Jim Peterik Brings the American Dream to Life On “American Dreamer”

Anything is possible in the land of the free.

As the founder of The Ides of March and Survivor, legendary songwriter Jim Peterik has long been at the forefront of America’s iconic music industry.

From the timeless hooks of “Vehicle” to the unstoppable drive of “Eye of the Tiger,” he’s been behind numerous legendary anthems that reflect the country’s grit, optimism, and idealism. Whether Peterik picks up the pen or mic, you know something unique is coming, and we hope this veteran of the scene continues to grace us with releases for a long time.

To a musician of Peterik’s stature and poise, music is an art form of the highest and something to be tended to with the utmost love and care. The music he’s penned has underlined the experiences of millions of people at boardwalks, high school and college football games, backstreets, block parties, and county fairs. In short, his musical footprint has become intimately linked with the American experience itself, and it’s a testament to his immense love of his craft that he’s still going. Jim Peterik is not one to rest on his laurels, and the best is yet to come.

Peterik’s latest release, “American Dreamer,” sees the maestro return to familiar territory. It’s got all the hallmarks of vintage Peterik greatness, with an instrumental performance brought to life by thunderous drums and iconic soaring guitar riffs. Peterik is joined on “American Dreamer” by vocalist Dave Mikulskis, who turns in an inspired vocal performance, with lyrics like “American dreamer / May you shine like a star / American dreamer / Like the galaxy you are” making this release incredibly freeing to sing along to.

There’s a sense of romance in the endless possibilities life in America can bring you. It’s the land of infinite opportunities, and in “American Dreamer,” Jim Peterik continues to capture this sensation.

Welcome to Buzz, Jim Peterik! We loved “American Dreamer.” What a beautiful dose of nostalgia that was! For this and your other releases, we wanted to ask what your biggest source of inspiration is.

That’s a great question! As John Miles quoted in the lyric for his song “Music” (produced by the Great Alan Parsons in the 1970s), “Music is my first love, and it will be my last—music from the future and Music from the past. In this world of trouble, my music gets me through.”

For someone who’s had so many iconic experiences and moments in the industry already, what’s your fondest music-related memory?

I’ll never forget my band, The Ides of March, opening for Led Zepplin just after our song "Vehicle" hit number one. After the show, Robert Plant invited us 19-year-olds to our first rock' n'roll party!

As someone who’s already accomplished so much, what goals or changes do you want to achieve through your music?

I’d like to inspire positivity, the joy of being on this earth together, and the making of the most of every day.

What inspired you to take that initial step to seriously pursue music, and what motivates you to make music now?

Initially, we emulated our favorite groups and artists. The first song we ever played was Hound Dog by Elvis Presley. Then came the Ventures. Then, of course, the Beatles. Then, we started writing our own songs, combining all those elements with our own creative spin.

What’s next for Jim Peterik, and is there anything you’d like to say to your fans?

It always blows me away when someone comes up to me and tells me how much my music was like the soundtrack of their life. Their stories always inspire me to create the kind of song that will outlive you and me. Timeless melodies and words you can dance to. Rock on!!

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