Rey (audio) — National Anthem - Lana Del

Critics generally praised the song's ambitious production while sometimes critiquing its lyrical depth.

Released in 2012 as a standout track on her breakthrough album, Born to Die , Lana Del Rey's is a high-gloss, alternative hip-hop anthem that critiques the intersection of love, wealth, and the American Dream. Audio Production & Composition

: It opens with sweeping strings and firework sound effects before shifting into a beat-driven groove. The production relies heavily on reverb and delay to create Del Rey's signature "hazy" sound. National Anthem - Lana Del Rey (Audio)

: Del Rey uses materialistic imagery—like the Hamptons and Bugatti Veyrons—to highlight a culture fueled by excess and neoliberal capitalism. Critics often debate whether these lyrics are a serious glorification of luxury or a sharp, ironic commentary on the shallowness of modern success.

The song explores the idea that in a capitalist society, "Money is the anthem of success". The production relies heavily on reverb and delay

: Produced by Emile Haynie with additional production by Jeff Bhasker , the track also features a sample from Rick James's "Mary Jane (Live @ Long Beach '81)". Themes & Lyrical Analysis

: The lyrics connect the pursuit of riches with a "quick, sick rampage," suggesting that extreme wealth can lead to reckless behavior and eventual loss. The song explores the idea that in a

: Described as alternative hip-hop or trip-hop, the song features a "rapping-like" vocal technique from Del Rey that mirrors other tracks on the album, such as "Diet Mountain Dew".