From ‘Party in the U.S.A.’ to ‘Born in the U.S.A.’: 19 of America’s Most Patriotic (and Un-Patriotic) Musical Offerings

Throwing a big bash for the Fourth of July and need a themed playlist?

The Hollywood Reporter has compiled a collection of tunes that celebrate America, ranging from Woody Guthrie’s “This Land Belongs to You and Me” to Lee Greenwood’s “May God Bless This Country.

While some individuals may express patriotic or positive sentiments about America and its people, not everyone shares this perspective. For instance, Bruce Springsteen’s “Born in the U.S.A.” is frequently misconstrued as a nationalistic anthem, but it was designed to shed light on the detrimental effects of the Vietnam War. On the other hand, Green Day’s “American Idiot” serves as a critique of American media.

Read on for more, and click here to see a list of Hollywood’s most patriotic movies.

‘God Bless the USA’

As a devoted admirer, I take great pride in being an American. Here, at least, I am assured of my freedom. I won’t ever forget those brave souls who sacrificed their lives to secure that liberty for me. I stand proudly alongside you, ready to defend our nation today, because there’s no question about it – I deeply cherish this land. May God continue to bless the USA.

Among the songs listed here, ‘God Bless the USA’ is arguably the most emblematic of patriotism, often played during Fourth of July fireworks displays. Notably, Lee Greenwood has performed this song at significant national events, such as the 2017 and 2025 inaugurations of Donald Trump, the Republican National Convention, and various Trump rallies.

Trump and Greenwood have developed a friendship, collaborating to market the “God Bless America Bible” in the previous year.

‘Back in the U.S.A.’

In a place where hamburgers constantly sizzle over an open grill, reminiscent of American diners, and the music pulses energetically, much like from a lively jukebox.

The words of the tune are said to have been inspired by Chuck Berry’s journey back to the United States after visiting Australia, where he observed the challenging conditions faced by the indigenous population.

‘Surfin U.S.A’

They’d be sporting loose pants or Huarache sandals, with a voluminous, long blond hairstyle, while enjoying surfing across the United States.

The summer tune mentions several well-known U.S. surfing locations such as Del Mar, Swami’s, and Trestles. It’s worth noting that out of the Beach Boys group, just Dennis Wilson was an avid surfer himself.

‘This Land Is Your Land’

Originating from California, stretching all the way to New York’s islands, encompassing the Redwood forests as well as the Gulf Stream waters – this vast landscape is not just for a select few, but it truly belongs to us all.

Woody Guthrie penned a song as a counterpoint to what he perceived as an excessively idealized and unauthentic portrayal of the USA found in Irving Berlin’s “God Bless America.

‘America’

“So we bought a pack of cigarettes and Mrs. Wagner pies/ And we walked off to look for America”

Simon & Garfunkel’s song tells the story of a road trip taken by two hitchhikers who at first feel optimistic but eventually become disillusioned as they journey across the country, trying to find their identities along the way. The character “Kathy” mentioned in the song is Kathy Chitty, a former love interest of Paul Simon.

‘American Woman’

“American woman, get away from me/ American woman, mama, let me be”

The classic song “The Guess Who” originated during a spontaneous performance at a concert in Kitchener, Ontario, and the studio recording retained the original, unscripted lyrics. While many people perceive it as anti-American or chauvinistic, Jim Kale, the band’s bassist, clarified that this was not the case. Coming from a conservative and peaceful country, the band members found themselves in bustling cities like Chicago, Detroit, and New York, which were filled with urban issues. After a grueling tour, returning home to see old friends was a welcome relief. Additionally, the war was ongoing, and this was widely unpopular. Although some labeled them as anti-American, they weren’t. They didn’t have any strong feelings against anything. John Lennon once stated that the meanings of songs are often interpreted after they are recorded, and someone else must interpret theirs.

In an iconic move, Lenny Kravitz reinterpreted the track for the movie “Austin Powers: The Spy who Loved It” (which is another way to say “The Spy Who Shagged Me”) starring Mike Myers.

‘Born in the U.S.A.’

I hail from the United States, specifically born within its borders, found myself in a minor predicament in my small hometown, and was given a rifle.

While many people may mistakenly perceive it as a patriotic tune, Bruce Springsteen actually composed the song as a means to highlight the detrimental consequences of the Vietnam War and the unfair treatment that veterans faced upon their return home.

In 1984, Springsteen shared with Rolling Stone that it’s difficult for most people to understand the unique experience of Vietnam War veterans. He doubts he could grasp it himself. The war took a toll not only during the fighting but also after the soldiers returned. Many didn’t survive the war, many didn’t survive afterward. Considering this, it seems clear that at the time, the country exploited their selflessness. There was a period when they were incredibly generous with their lives.

The song ranked 275th on the Rolling Stone’s “500 Greatest Songs of All Time.”

‘American Girl’

Indeed, she was an American woman who had been brought up with expectations. It wasn’t uncommon for her mind to wander, considering the possibility that there might be something more to experience beyond where she currently lived.

It’s been said that the lyrics of the song refer to a young woman who took her life by leaping from a dormitory at the University of Florida in Gainesville, Florida, where Tom Petty spent his childhood. However, the musician denied these claims.

‘American Pie’

“We were singin‘ bye-bye, Miss American Pie/ Drove my Chevy to the levee, but the levee was dry.”

This tune is most famously recognized for its mysterious verses, sparking numerous theories and a variety of explanations. Many believe it tells the story of the late singer Buddy Holly, who tragically passed away in a plane accident, and it’s said that Don McLean dedicated his “American Pie” album to him.

‘Kids in America’

“New York to East California. /There’s a new wave coming I warn you. /We’re the kids in America.”

Contrary to what the tune suggests, Kim Wilde wasn’t a child residing in America. Instead, she spent her childhood in west London, being the offspring of rocker Marty Wilde, who penned the song together with his son Ricky.

Kim once explained that the song’s inspiration stemmed from her father’s daydream about life being superior in America. For his contemporaries, this notion was indeed validated. They envisioned themselves cruising around in cars, sipping milkshakes, and enjoying hamburgers in America – experiences we didn’t have in the U.K. at that time. I believe a significant portion of these ideals found their way into the song’s lyrics, suggesting that American kids were living more exciting, adventurous, even riskier lives than us.

‘Fortunate Son’

Certain individuals seem destined for leadership roles, their patriotism radiating like the colors of our flag – red, white, and blue. When the music starts playing ‘Hail to the Leader,’ it’s as if they’re ready to aim their support, unwavering and powerful, just as a cannon would be under your command.

John Fogerty, the lead singer of Creedence Clearwater Revival, shared with Rolling Stone that the song was motivated by David Eisenhower, grandson of President Eisenhower, and Julie Nixon, daughter of President Nixon. He explained that there was a sense that these individuals would not be connected to the Vietnam war due to their high-profile family status.

‘American Idiot’

“Don’t wanna be an American idiot./ Don’t want a nation under the new media.”

As a devoted fan, I’ve come to realize that the title itself hints at the fact that “American Idiot” isn’t your typical heartwarming patriotic tune. Instead, it serves as a biting critique of American media and our shared values, far from being another rendition of “America the Beautiful.” Inspired by the pro-redneck sentiments in Lynyrd Skynyrd’s song “That’s How I Like It,” which played on my car radio, Green Day’s frontman, Billy Joe Armstrong, found himself compelled to express his strong disagreement and channel it into the creation of “American Idiot.

‘Jack & Diane’

“Little ditty about Jack and Diane/ Two American kids growin‘ up in the heartland”

As per John Mellencamp, previously known as John Cougar, the song “Jack & Diane” was inspired by a real-life relationship he had with a girl residing close to his hometown, Seymour, Indiana.

‘Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue’

“Man, it’s gonna be hell/ When you hear Mother Freedom/ Start ringin’ her bell”

Toby Keith was inspired to write a song about his father’s belief in America following his father’s death in a car accident and the devastating 9/11 attacks. At first, he declined to record the song, instead performing it exclusively during his concerts for military audiences.

Keith would go on to write another patriotic song about his father, 2011’s “Made in America.”

‘White America’

Our homeland, symbolized by the stripes and stars, is a testament to the freedoms people have fought and even given their lives to preserve. It’s also a tribute to the brave men and women who risked everything, including their lives, for the right to express themselves freely, a cherished value in the United States.

As an ardent fan, I’d express it like this: In response to criticisms from parents, politicians, and notable figures such as Lynne Cheney and Tipper Gore, who accused him of inspiring delinquency among young, white Americans, Eminem crafted a song as a means of defense.

‘Party in the U.S.A.’

This way, I’m raising my hands high/ They’re grooving to my melody/ I feel confident things will turn out fine/ Indeed, there’s a celebration unfolding across America.

Miley Cyrus has expressed that the song doesn’t truly showcase her musical talents and history, as she hadn’t heard any songs by Jay-Z, who is mentioned in the lyrics, at the time the song was recorded. Despite this, it has become a popular anthem for Fourth of July celebrations.

‘Made in America’

In honor of my grandmother’s delicious banana pudding, a cherished part of our American heritage, I promise my loyalty – it’s the secret ingredient that gives our apple pie its distinctive flavor, made possible with Arm & Hammer.

From Jay-Z and Kanye West’s “Watch the Throne” album, a moving ballad is found that explores ideas related to family, growing up, and the American Dream. Vocals for this song were penned by R&B artist Frank Ocean.

‘Pink Houses’

Indeed, isn’t that America – a spectacle for us both? Isn’t it America, a place of freedom, yes? Isn’t it America that offers modest homes, not just for the powerful, but for ordinary people like us.

John Mellencamp (previously known as John Cougar Mellencamp) himself stated that the song isn’t a celebration of American life as it might seem, but rather a criticism. The catchy chorus, in fact, is intended to convey sarcasm.

Over time, people have misunderstood this song due to its energetic chorus, which seems patriotic. However, according to Mellencamp, it’s actually a critique of America. He explains that the ‘American Dream’ was no longer effective, and he found another way to express his dissent through the song.

‘Independence Day’

Ring out liberty, let the pure pigeon call/ Let everyone hear that this is a decisive moment/ Strengthen the weak, make the just unjust/ Move aside obstacles, let the culprits face their consequences/ Shift the heavy burden, let the wrongdoers pay/ It’s the celebration of our Independence

The tune seems like a patriotic hymn, yet it’s actually a powerful narrative about a woman breaking free from an abusive marriage by setting her home ablaze – effectively celebrating her own “day of independence.” Unfortunately, upon its release, many listeners failed to grasp the song’s true meaning.

According to singer Martina McBride, some individuals fail to grasp the meaning behind the song entirely.

The tune has significantly affected survivors of domestic violence. McBride shared, “I began receiving letters – handwritten ones, from way back then – from women expressing, ‘This is my song.'” Some letters even stated, “I heard this song on the radio, I’ve been enduring abuse for a decade, and I finally left. This was the moment that helped me understand it wasn’t my fault and that I needed to make a change.

2025-07-01 20:55