China Girl was co-written with David Bowie, who helped Iggy find financial stability for the first time in his life by later recording his own version for his smash hit record Let’s Dance so his friend could enjoy a piece of the songwriting royalties.
The pair also co-wrote “Lust for Life”.
[Verse 1]
I couldn't escape this feeling
With my China girl
I'm just a wreck without
My little China girl
[Chorus]
I'd hear her heart beating
Loud as thunder
Saw the stars crashing
[Verse 2]
I'm a mess without
My China girl
Wake up mornings
There's no China girl
[Chorus]
I'd hear hearts beating
Loud as thunder
And I'd see stars crashing down
[Verse 3]
I'd feel tragic
Like I was Marlon Brando
When I'd look at my China girl
I could pretend that nothing
Really meant too much
When I'd look at my China girl
I'd stumble into town
Just like a sacred cow
Visions of swastikas in my head
And plans for everyone
It's in the white of my eyes
My little China girl
You shouldn't mess with me
I'll ruin everything you are
I'll give you television
I'll give you eyes of blue
I'll give you men
Who want to rule the world
And when I get excited
My little China girl says
"Oh, Jimmy, just you shut your mouth"
She says, "Shh"
China Girl was written by Iggy Pop & David Bowie.
China Girl was produced by David Bowie.
Iggy Pop released China Girl on Fri Mar 18 1977.