Patriotism comes in many shapes and sizes. But there’s nothing like a patriotic song to inspire feelings of pride in your country. They help unite communities in times of crisis, and they help galvanize people around a sense of community. Here are six patriotic songs that are bound to get you excited about America.
1. The Star-Spangled Banner aka “The National Anthem”
When it comes to patriotic songs, nothing tops the National Anthem. And no rendition tops Whitney Houston’s during the 1991 Super Bowl (although Chris Stapleton came pretty close this year).
2. Made in America
It can be easy to focus on what’s going wrong and forget about the progress that our country has made. This song from Jay-Z, Frank Ocean and Kanye West highlights voices for progress as well as the opportunities that have opened up for all Americans.
3. America the Beautiful
The lyrics of this beloved song, sung here by Ray Charles in 1972, remind us that we are one America. From “purple mountains’ majesty” to the “amber waves of grain” and “from sea to shining sea” – it is all beautiful and it is all American.
4. Ragged Old Flag
Some of the loudest voices in culture and the media want us to think that America is so divided that we will never recover. But America is strong, and our flag has stood strong through far more troubled times. America is something to be proud of, as Johnny Cash reminds us in this iconic song.
5. Fiesta En América
It’s all about that lyric “Acentos diferentes con un solo corazón” (which, in English, means “different accents with the same heart”). This famous song by Chayanne, a Puerto Rican Latin pop singer, talks about different backgrounds coming together as one in America. Even when times are hard, there is still so much to unite us – and that’s something to celebrate!
6. My Country Tis of Thee
We round out the list with a classic. A lot of us probably grew up with this song about our “sweet land of liberty” but hearing the Soldier’s Chorus sing it makes it hit a little differently. These men and women from all backgrounds are dedicated to protecting Americans of all backgrounds.
The theme is clear. America is a land of freedom and opportunity, and we shouldn’t take that for granted. So raise your voice and sing along to these six patriotic songs that get us excited about America!
