The song's lyrics were supposedly written based upon Berry returning to the United States following a trip to Australia and witnessing the living standards of Australian Aborigines.

The background vocals on Berry's recording are by Etta James and The Marquees, aka Harvey & the New Moonglows, featuring the young Marvin Gaye.

According to production assistant Mark Slocombe, despite Ronstadt having rehearsed with the band playing in the key of C, Berry's guitar playing on the actual concert performance of "Back in the U.S.A." necessitated the band performing in the key of G: Slocombe – "Linda Ronstadt's such a pro, you really don't hear her strain or muff it.

[Berry's birthday fête consisted of two concerts planned to feature identical set lists and guest performers.]"

Rock 'n' Roll, with the track being included on the soundtrack album: according to Slocombe, "they had a hard time getting [Ronstadt] to sign the release for the [performance] because she was so pissed off.