No matter the occasion – from barbecuing with friends to watching fireworks – country music brings out a patriotic spirit! These 10 songs will get your celebration started right. Sing along!
This song celebrates both simple pleasures such as fried chicken and cold beer as well as more profound ones, like America itself and its unwavering loyalty.
1. “God Bless the U.S.A.” by Merle Haggard
No country music fan can forget this timeless hit that honors patriotism, perfect for when the festivities remind us what it’s all about.
This country classic can be enjoyed by everyone and brings back fond memories of small towns across America.
John Mellencamp’s version of this iconic song is one of the most moving. His powerful lyrics will leave you moved and proud to be an American. For parties or celebrations alike, this track can bring everyone dancing – making this timeless classic worth listening to all year long!
2. “It Ain’t Even the Fourth of July” by Thomas Rhett
Country music has long served as a source of patriotism and American pride, whether at a BBQ with family and friends or cheering at fireworks displays – these patriotic tunes will leave you proud to call yourself an American.
Thomas Rhett’s song “It Ain’t Even the Fourth of July” is an upbeat and joyous tribute to enjoying simple things such as eating fried chicken, fishing in rivers and sipping sweet tea on your porch with friends. A modern country classic sure to remain popular through generations!
3. “Sweet Home Alabama” by Alabama
Sweet Home Alabama is an iconic all-American song, embodying the pride many Americans feel for their home state of Alabama. Additionally, this track serves as a poignant reminder that America can sometimes be more harsh than expected; thus making this track ideal for any patriotic 4th of July playlist.
Even though Ronnie Van Zant and Gary Rossington, who wrote its lyrics, mentioned three cities in Alabama in their song, their band actually formed in Jacksonville, Florida by high school friends.
It was originally written as a response to Neil Young’s songs “Southern Man” and “Alabama.” Since its debut, however, it has become one of the most beloved Southern rock tracks ever. Arguably the most well-known American song outside The Star Spangled Banner!
4. “America the Beautiful” by George Strait
This infectious tune is sure to get everyone dancing around your grill, with Lenny Kravitz himself performing it during his Super Bowl halftime performance in 2023.
Country music has long been known for its patriotic side, and this stirring track is no exception. Pay your respects to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice on behalf of our country – you will surely feel prouder of being American than ever!
Post Malone made his Super Bowl debut this year with an acoustic rendition of “America the Beautiful” that followed Andra Day’s pre-game performance of “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” as well as singing of both national anthem and lifting every voice to sing (as witnessed here). Watch it here.
5. “Courtesy of the Red, White & Blue” by Toby Keith
Country music offers plenty of patriotic songs that are ideal for 4th of July celebrations, like “Courtesy of the Red, White & Blue,” written and performed by Keith to honor American pride with its trademark country sound. However, its message caused some controversy; Keith clashed with Dixie Chicks singer Natalie Maines over her criticisms of President George W. Bush and Iraq War policies.
Keith performed this song shortly after learning he had cancer, and it proved an emotive performance. The lyrics speak directly to those experiencing the process of growing old while being both humorous and touching – making this track an ideal addition to any patriotic playlist.
6. “The Star Spangled Banner” by The Beatles
Country music transcends barbecues and country fairs; it embodies the heartland, patriotism, and America itself. That’s why John Mellencamp’s “Jack & Diane”, as one of the leaders of heartland rock, should make any 4th of July playlist.
This song balances between the everlasting optimism of American dreaming and more sober realities of American life – but never loses its strength or nuance. A stunning addition to any patriotic playlist.
Everyone knows about Lee Greenwood’s iconic rendition of America’s national anthem, but nothing beats Johnny Cash’s version. You will experience goosebumps as it reminds you why this performance earned a place on the National Recording Registry; simply beautiful.
7. “Boondocks” by Willie Nelson
If you want a song that will evoke feelings of patriotism and American pride, look no further than Jake Owen’s 2019 album Loose Cannon. This track reworks an iconic Willie Nelson track from the 1980s country scene with its unmistakable melody and lyrics – it’s the perfect way to show our nation pride!
Nelson made waves in Nashville music with the release of Red Headed Stranger in 1975. Collaborations with Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings and Kris Kristofferson would later propel him towards becoming an iconic figure of country music.
This song is sure to get everyone on their feet dancing – making it the ideal song to play when preparing to celebrate any holiday! Plus, its music video will surely put smiles on all faces. Not to mention its timeless status: being one of America’s iconic songs that makes one feel patriotic!
8. “It’s a Beautiful Day” by Sheryl Crow
Sheryl Crow has been making music for over thirty years. Since then she has released eleven studio albums, five compilations, three live albums, as well as various collaborations that mix rock music with folk and country genres.
Though not specifically about Independence Day, this song is an infectious country tune to get everyone up dancing and singing along. It celebrates America’s natural beauty as well as the timeless hope of its dream.
Those looking for something more serious should add Childish Gambino’s “Americana.” This song addresses America’s systemic failures with great urgency, leaving listeners inspired and revitalized about their love of America.
9. “American Kids” by Kenny Chesney
As part of your 4th of July celebrations, whether attending or hosting, patriotic songs are sure to get everyone moving and singing along! From honoring freedom of speech and nature’s bounty to family reunions and the fun that can come from celebrating family ties – these classic country hits will leave your guests beaming with pride!
Brooks & Dunn’s upbeat song from 2001 stands out from many patriotic tracks by taking an honest and realistic view of Americans from both political sides. Its central theme centers around hope for America’s children in an improved tomorrow.
Kenny Chesney may make music fans fall head over heels in love, but his romantic life remains rather private. First linked with Mary Nolan in 2012, but they have yet to confirm whether or not they are still together.
10. “God Bless the U.S.A.” by John Mellencamp
Are you in search of something to get the blood pumping this Fourth of July? Look no further than John Mellencamp’s patriotic anthem celebrating freedom with both pride and anger!
Mellencamp was inspired by AM radio, with its blend of genres like folk, rock, and pop that would play on small-town Indiana radio stations when he was growing up there. This song that Mellencamp originally recorded for September 11th Telethon but never used captures his heartland values of faith, hard work, and healthy skepticism about government.
Rest in peace, Tom Petty! This timeless song from his 1976 album Scarecrow should be on every patriotic playlist. The track expertly explores both the hopeful hope of the American dream and its harsh realities – creating a singalong classic from this powerful American artist that everyone will enjoy singing along to.