Every July Fourth, families all across the nation celebrate the day we claimed our independence. Given all the various cultures throughout the states, there are endless ways of celebrating, and endless preferred songs to celebrate. Here is a list of 11 songs that will truly make you feel like a red-blooded American.
Martina McBride - "Independence Day"
This 1994 hit shows how the spirit of American Independence isn't just about being our own sovereign nation, but it also applies to American citizens having the strength to overcome their own individual tyrannies.
Lonestar - "I'm Already There"
Released in March of 2001, this tearjerker tells the story of a man whose job requires him to travel away from his adoring family. This song has also become associated with the stories of troops, who all-too-frequently must leave their loved ones in order to fight for our country.
Toby Keith - "American Soldier"
In 2003, Toby Keith released this proud song to display what lengths our servicemen and women go to in order to serve. I dare you to listen to it and not get in your feels.
Brooks & Dunn - "Only in America"
This upbeat summer hit from June of 2001 paints the picture of life for us everyday American kids, dreaming big and giving it our all.
Trace Adkins - "Arlington"
There are no words that can do this song justice. Just listen to it and feel... Everything.
Lee Greenwood - "God Bless the USA"
In 1984, Lee Greenwood released this patriotic ballad that every American event ever features, either in its original form or as one of the many covers that have been made over the years.
Alan Jackson - "Where Were You (When the World Stopped Turning)"
I remember listening to this song as a child and not quite understanding what it was about, since I was only four years old when the attacks on the World Trade Center occurred. Over the years I've gained an enormous respect for this song as it highlights what really matters in life in the shadow of tragedy.
Toby Keith - "Courtesy of the Red White and Blue (The Angry American)"
As the title may suggest, this one's for the "angry" American. This 2002 kick-you-in-the-teeth hit will get that red blood pumping and make you want to run down the street wearing an American Flag as a cape. Or maybe just exercise your right to vote, if you're a little more laid-back like me.
Tim McGraw - "If You're Reading This"
In 2007 Tim McGraw broke America's heart with this one. It's written as a goodbye letter from veteran killed overseas, and it will haunt you in the best way.
Bruce Springsteen - "Born in the U.S.A."
For a change of tempo, jam out to this classic 1984 rock ballad by the one and only Bruce Springsteen.
But of course, this playlist couldn't be complete without...
Francis Scott Key - "The Star-Spangled Banner"
Our National Anthem is a beautiful work of art that should be honored and adored by all Americans.
Whatever you're doing this 4th of July, whether you're out on a lake somewhere, partying in a city skyscraper, or just watching the fireworks from your backyard, let this playlist ignite your patriotism while you celebrate.