I’m not going to sugarcoat much of this. Let’s just turn up the speakers and play the music.
I will say this: these songs are not necessary “rah-rah pro-America” songs. They are songs that celebrate the holiday in their own, unique way. You’re going to like some of these songs. You’re probably going to hate some of these songs. Some of these songs are neither safe for work nor young years. It is what it is. And I have my own reasons for it.
“The Star-Spangled Banner” Jim Hendrix
My favorite legend of this is that the filmmaker recording this at Woodstock in 1969 was almost out of film when Hendrix played the anthem.
“Real American” Derringer
WHATCHA GONNA DO BROTHER WHEN THE UNITED STATES RUNS WILD ON YOU?!?
“4th of July” Shooter Jennings
You can’t get more American than outlaw country, folks.
“American, F#@K Yeah!” Team America: World Police
Is it crude? Hell yeah, it’s crude. But it’s also one of the most accurate political satires ever made, with no side spared from critique. Who knew satire could be so patriotic?
“Freedom Isn’t Free” Team America: World Police
As I said…..
“America” Neil Diamond
Sure, the movie The Jazz Singer was panned as a terrible film. But people need patriotic, yacht rock anthems too (don’t they Scott?)
“Living in America” James Brown
If this song doesn’t make you want to go out and punch some commies in the face, I can’t help you.
“God Bless the USA” Lee Greenwood
I know, I know. A lot of people think the song is corny. The video is even corner (pay attention to the part where Lee Greenwood really gets into singing “I gladly stand up!” while sitting down). But admit it. It hits you in the feels every time you hear it.
“We’re an American Band” Rob Zombie
I could not possibly think of somebody more different to follow Lee Greenwood. I selected this version over the original Grand Funk Railroad version because a song about American rock ‘n roll excess deserves the personification of American rock ‘n roll excess.
“Take Me Home Country Roads” John Denver
The song references West Virginia. It was written about Montgomery County Maryland. But it speaks to us as Americans.
“Sweet Home Alabama” Lynyrd Skynyrd
The imagery didn’t age well. But it’s a love song to the south. And you’re lying if you don’t sing the lyrics at the top of your lungs when it comes on the radio.
“Courtesy of the Red, White, and Blue” Tony Keith
This song was a mood for those of us in the days after 9/11. Of course, now that the President is negotiating with the Taliban, we seem to be out of the “we’ll put a boot in your ass” business.
And finally….
“American the Beautiful” Ray Charles
No list would be complete without the most beautiful rendition you could ever possibly make of this song.
Celebrate and be safe this weekend.
My favorite bonus cuts
Boston - star spangled banner
Zac brown - chicken fried
Living in America - James Brown
Ive been everywhere - Johnny Cash
American Girl - Tom Petty
Great list...... I would add, if I may, Chuck Berry - Back in the USA