It’s about time to start celebrating your country. In spite of politics, the economy and other concerns, one day a year is set aside to celebrate the great things that make up the U.S.A. What better way to express this then through music?
Here is a list of the top 10 songs that celebrate America.
“God Bless the USA” – Lee Greenwood
Lee Greenwood penned what some consider a timeless classic of American patriotism. I get awfully tired of hearing this song played over and over around the 4th, but it’s a simple, beautiful (if somewhat clichéd), example of the beauty of America.
Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue” – Toby Keith
This song was wildly controversial when it was released, adding fuel to a battle between Toby Keith and Natalie Maines of the Dixie Chicks.. Some were outraged, and others saw it as a powerful American anthem. Either way, I feel it’s an amazing song, and expresses the anger felt by America after 9-11.
Where Were You (When the World Stopped Turning)” – Alan Jackson
Do you remember where you were when 9-11 happened? Alan Jackson sings a heartfelt ballad about how he, and many in the world felt when America was brutally attacked. This song is a great reminder to love your country, and not forget what it’s been through.
“Fighting Side of Me” – Merle Haggard
This song is from the Vietnam Era, and discusses the freedom Americans have in expressing their opinions. It tries to make the point that while you can express your opinion, you should always consider how it will make others feel. As an example, he discusses the freedom that protestors had during the Vietnam war, but they needed to remember to support our fellow Americans. A beautiful song that doesn’t rely on mindless patriotism, but strives to tell it how it is, or should be.
“Only In America” – Brooks & Dunn
This song discusses the multitude of freedoms being an American brings. It has a great beat and makes you want to sing along. Another great song that makes you proud to be an American, without drilling it into your brain.
Born In The USA” – Bruce Springsteen
This song is a tale of a Vietnam veteran who returned home and was treated like dirt for doing what he was told to do. On its release, President Ronald Reagan used it in his campaign, like many other people had, misinterpreting the song as patriotic, instead of a critical commentary. Not every patriotic song has to proclaim the greatness of the country. Some, like this one, choose to be honest about the mistakes that have been made in this country.
If You’re Reading This” – Tim McGraw
This song makes me cry, every time I hear it. With a brother who served in Iraq, it hits home for me, and other Americans who have loved ones fighting in the war. The song is about a soldier who dies in war, and describes how he would like to be buried and remembered. If you’re reading this, you know he’s gone. This is a heartbreaking song, one that reaches deep into the heart.
“Some Gave All” – Billy Ray Cyrus
Famous for his Achy Breaky Heart, many have overlooked this ballad by Billy Ray. It’s a song about the soldiers who have died, why we should honor their memories, and what they gave for this country.
“Bumper of My SUV” – Chely Wright
Written after receiving an obscene gesture for sporting a Marine’s bumper sticker, Wright fights back and explains that she has family in the military and love for the soldiers, in spite of anybody’s political feelings.
America” – Waylon Jennings
This song was written to express that America isn’t perfect. Wars may happen, politics may interfere, and people may not always care, but at the basic level, America is built on freedom. Those who remember why this country became so great, appreciate it for what is was, and what it can be again.
