The 4th of July is the perfect time to enjoy a family cookout — but it’s about so much more than that. Celebrate the true meaning of the 4th of July with this patriotic playlist.
The 4th of July is a day to let your patriotism shine and music is a great way to show off your love for America! Our 4th of July playlist showcases tracks that give musical shoutouts to the good ole US of A. They’re all different genres, all different tempos and will each make you feel a different way about America this Independence Day.
Toby Keith‘s patriotism is unmatched and “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue” will go over well with your family this holiday. If Keith doesn’t do it for you, there’s also Neil Diamond, John Mellencamp and more. There’s something on this playlist for everyone.
4th of July Playlist:
Toby Keith – “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue (The Angry American)”
Keith is the picture of patriotism and this was a very important song for his career. The song was a No. 1 hit, with Keith writing it after the Sept. 11 attacks and the death of his father that same year. He did catch a little slack for the song, mainly because of the controversial line, “We’ll put a boot in your ass. It’s the American way.” The controversy couldn’t take down a song that’s also one of the most popular YouTube tracks for the 4th of July (according to Billboard).
Bruce Springsteen – “Born in the U.S.A.”
What better way to get the whole crew singing along on the 4th of July than with The Boss? Everyone’s mood will instantly be uplifted when Bruce Springsteen sings, “Born in the U.S.A., I was born in the U.S.A. / I was born in the U.S.A.” Springsteen released the popular song in 1984, about the negative effects of the Vietnam War and the way Vietnam vets were treated when they returned home. Play this one loud.
Neil Diamond – “America”
Diamond’s “America” is another positively patriotic tune. This one, though, is about immigration history here in the US. It was first released in 1980 for a soundtrack but then released again in 1981. It was then that the song became a hit. He re-recorded it after the September 11 terrorist attacks, changing the lyrics from “They’re coming to America” to “Stand up for America.”
Don McLean – “American Pie”
If you ask Don McLean about “American Pie,” he says, “It was an indescribable photograph of America that I tried to capture in words and music.” (quote via The Washington Post) The song is the ultimate American anthem. This is another that’ll get your grandparents and the kids singing along in between burgers.
Carrie Underwood – “All-American Girl”
Who doesn’t love Carrie Underwood? “All-American Girl” may not be the most patriotic song, but it is a gentle reminder that here in the United States, we’re free to be just about anything we want to be. Even the video details life as a nurse, a cowgirl, a waitress, a chef, a cheerleader and more. Enjoy your freedom doing whatever it is that floats your boat this 4th of July!
Whitney Houston – “The Star-Spangled Banner”
The 4th of July is the perfect day to blast our national anthem. But which version? There are so many epic recordings of “The Star-Spangled Banner,” but Whitney Houston‘s is special. This one may bring a tear to your eye.
John Mellencamp – “Our Country”
John Mellencamp’s “Our Country” is another song that celebrates freedom in America. He addresses the issues we do have, but suggests our country will continue to improve. The song snagged him a Grammy nomination for Best Solo Rock Performance in 2008. You may hear familiar background vocals on the track, they’re done by Little Big Town.
Honorable Mentions:
Martina McBride – “Independence Day”
“God Bless America”
Lenny Kravitz – “American Woman”
Kanye West and Jay-Z – “Made in America”
Brad Paisley – “American Saturday Night”
What are your favorite 4th of July songs?
