We all know THE epitome of American songs. We hear it at the beginning of athletic games. We’ve heard it sung by the talented, the not-so-talented, even kids, and it’s probably the most frequently rehearsed shower song (Yes, that’s right, you’re busted!). Although we’ll always love and respect the Star Spangled Banner, there are so many independence-related songs around us all the time that we hear on the radio, sing along to, and even listen to as they accompany movies in soundtracks.

Since I’m entertaining several of my favorite out of town and in town guests this weekend for the 4th of July, and every group gathering is better when accompanied by tunes, I thought I’d put together a brief playlist for us, and for you, of  classic-but-still-goin’-strong patriotic hits and even a few newer Independence Day and freedom-related tracks to get your 4th of July celebration started! (Yes–I know there is a slight country music influence in this list, but, the country music genre IS a major part of and by-product of American culture, and for many of my readers, you live in Texas, so deal!)

Click on the song names below to jam out!

• American Pie– Don McLean (1971) – Enough said. Eat apple pie. Play this song. Recite the lyrics you can remember. Be proud to be an American!
• Independence Day– Martina McBride (2003)- If sounds could have colors associated with them, this song would radiate red, white, and blue and feels like celebration on Independence Day!
• Redemption Song– Bob Marley (1980)- For all you hippies, closet hippies, or summer camp-goers, this is a chill, and soulful freedom-focused track.
• American Girl– Tom Petty (1977) – Another American classic that’s been around for about awhile. It has a playful tune, and just makes you want to dance and sing along!
• Freedom– Akon (2008)- I just found this song tonight, and it’s kind of catchy! Plus, it’s a recent song about freedom, so I think it’s appropriate, and up with the times!
• Chicken Fried– Zac Brown Band (2008)- This song is about good ol’ Southern-American down home country cookin’ and not only does it have a spunky American feel, it makes me proud to be a country-lovin’ Texan!
• Born in the USA– Bruce Springsteen (1984)- If this song doesn’t make you feel patriotic…This high-energy, upbeat American classic is a must-have on your 4th of July Playlist.
• Fifty Nifty United States– Ray Charles– Just kidding…but in case you’re feeling nostalgic, and this is how you learned to recite the United States alphabetically, click here for your listening and reminiscing pleasure.