There’s no better genre to set a patriotic mood like country. Born and bred in the USA, country artists have a knack for writing inspiring songs.
Whether you throw a Fourth of July party or hit a country road, here are the best country songs about America.
1. “God Bless the USA” by Lee Greenwood
Song year: 1984
Most Americans have likely heard Lee Greenwood’s “God Bless the USA” by now. In fact, the tune is considered to be so patriotic that some see it as a quasi-anthem for the United States.
In the lyrics, Greenwood expresses an immense appreciation for America’s beautiful landscapes, and most citizens can relate. The narrator continues with an affirmation that if the country ever needs it, he will stand up to defend his land and the freedoms of the country.
2. “I’m American” by Billy Ray Cyrus
Song year: 2011
Billy Ray Cyrus’ 2011 song “I’m American” is also the namesake of his patriotic album. The song talks about how growing up in the US shaped the country singer’s personality.
Cyrus sings about his pride as an American, even mentioning his boots. As we all know, a good pair of cowboy boots have long been a cornerstone of the country.
3. “Ragged Old Flag” by Johnny Cash
Song year: 1974
Johnny Cash’s “Ragged Old Flag” is a classic thanks to its narrative approach to storytelling. In the song, a man learns about the history of the American flag from an older person in the town square.
He reveals this flag has marched across the Delaware River and inspired Francis Scott Keyes. It’s safe to say that it has a rich history.
4. “Only in America” by Brooks & Dunn
Song year: 2001
Brooks & Dunn sings about uniquely American experiences in this 2001 tune. The song mentions the New York City skyline, the highways of Los Angeles, and the American Dream of becoming famous.
“Only in America” spans the mundane of school bus drivers sitting in a traffic jam to people traveling to Los Angeles to become actors. Its chorus emphasizes that the US is a place where you can dream as big as you want.
5. “It’s America” by Rodney Atkins
Song year: 2009
In “It’s America,” Rodney Atkins sings about the imagery he associates with America. He mentions kids at lemonade stands, proms, Bruce Springsteen, Chevrolets, and more.
All these things would make the perfect American postcard and an even better American country song.
6. “America” by Waylon Jennings
Song year: 1984
In “America,” Waylon Jennings expresses a sentiment that resonates with many. He sings about how proud he is to call America his home, no matter where in the country he wanders.
Jennings goes on to affirm that no matter who a person is, they are his American brother. This is a deeply poignant song, touching on sensitive topics like Vietnam while celebrating the US as a home for all.
7. “In America” by the Charlie Daniels Band
Song year: 1980
The Charlie Daniels Band sings about American resilience in their hit, “In America.” The artist says that no matter how hard the country stumbles, it will always get back up again.
If there’s one thing that history has taught us, the country can always get back on its feet and never give up.
8. “Where the Stars and Stripes and the Eagle Fly” by Aaron Tippin
Song year: 2002
Aaron Tippin showcases his patriotism with “Where the Stars and Stripes and the Eagle Fly.” His pride exudes from the lyrics, while he calls on like-minded people to be the same.
In the lyrics, Tippin says hard work pays off in America, and that he plans on raising his kids as patriots just as he was as a child.
9. “American Soldier” by Toby Keith
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DWrMeBR8W-c
Song year: 2003
In “American Soldier,” Toby Keith sings about being in the American military. His work comes from a place of patriotism, as he does it despite struggling to make ends meet.
This song is a reminder that we should thank those who serve. It makes for a great Memorial Day weekend tune to remind our family and friends why we have the day off work.
10. “American Rifle” by Tommy Conners
Song year: 2011
In this heartwarming song, country music iconic Tommy Conners sings from the point of view of a rifle. The rifle has been a part of countless wars that have shaped the country.
“American Rifle” is an ode to all soldiers. It chronicles the history of the country, referencing the Battle of Lexington, the War of 1812, the battles of the Civil War, the horrors of WWI and WWII, and continues to the Cold War. As the narrator recounts these moments, they remind the listener they stayed awake so that America could sleep.
11. “Arlington” by Trace Adkins
Song year: 2005
Trace Adkins’s’ song “Arlington” is a real tear-jerker if you listen closely enough. He sings from the point of view of a fallen soldier. Like other American soldiers, his final resting place is in Arlington National Cemetery.
So many Americans know someone who rests in the nation’s most famous cemetery. Even if you never knew a fallen soldier, you can still be proud of those who lay there—–especially after listening to this song.
12. “Bumper of My SUV” by Chely Wright
Song year: 2005
Though the title does not sound patriotic, this song means a lot to military families. Chely Wright sings about the US Marines bumper sticker on her SUV. While she knows how much it means to serve, people often ridicule her for it.
Wright talks about how serving the United States does not mean wanting war. It simply means that you are willing to do anything to protect the country’s people.
13. “Courtesy of the Red, White, and Blue (The Angry American)” by Toby Keith
Song year: 2002
Toby Keith’s country hit “Courtesy of the Red, White, and Blue” was partly inspired by 9/11. The song warns anyone who plans on messing with the USA that they have a storm coming.
Keith invokes the bald eagle, Lady Liberty, Old Glory, and Uncle Sam. In doing so, Keith emphasizes that justice will be served against those who target his country.
14. “Some Gave All” by Billy Ray Cyrus
Song year: 1992
“Some Gave All” is an anthem to American soldiers by country music artist Billy Ray Cyrus. He sings about how every soldier makes a sacrifice, but some make the ultimate sacrifice: their life.
This is one song that movingly puts a soldier’s sacrifice into perspective. After all, there is no gift more precious than one’s own life.
15. “American Kids” by Kenny Chesney
Song year: 2014
In “American Kids,” Kenny Chesney talks about growing up as an American-born teenager. He covers the country from New York to Los Angeles, even mentioning some niche American experiences like trailer parks and Baptist churches.
Chesney doesn’t hold back with the nostalgia. But there is also a relatable realness to the lyrics, and that makes this song even more special.
16. “Fly Over States” by Jason Aldean
Song year: 2010
Frequent flyers might get a kick out of this Jason Aldean song. “Fly Over States” is about a group of men flying across the country. They chat and flirt with the staff in the cabin, paying no mind to the American landscape underneath them.
Aldean laments this, and celebrates the beautiful sights and experiences of so-called “Flyover Country.”
17. “American Child” by Phil Vassar
Song year: 2002
This song is about Phil Vassar growing up in America and making his dreams come true. He may not have been great at sports as a child, but he was able to find what he loves to do. Ultimately, he fulfilled his American dream.
Now, he has a child of his own, and she will be able to do what she loves, too. I think that everyone hopes their child will fulfill their dreams.
18. “America Will Survive” by Hank Williams Jr
Song year: 2002
Next up on the list of country songs about America is another tune about the nation’s resilience. “America Will Survive” speaks to everyone from the cities, the mountains, and the fields. This country is resilient, and we can handle anything that comes our way.
Not only is this song inspiring as an American, but it is also motivational enough to get listeners through their day.
19. “Riding With Private Malone” by David Ball
Song year: 2001
In “Riding With Private Malone,” David Ball sings about buying a new car, fixing it, and driving. He specifically purchases a Chevrolet, which is an American car.
This song is perfect for patriots and car-lovers alike. After all, there is nothing quite as American as getting a Chevy for a bargain and making it your own.
20. “American Saturday Night” by Brad Paisley
Song year: 2009
America is a melting pot, and Brad Paisley captures that fact by delving into everything that goes on during an American Saturday night. There’s Canadian bacon on pizza, Italian ices, French kisses, Little China, and Little Italy.
Next time you spend a Saturday night going out, try to see how many other countries’ influences you can spot. Then, listen to this tune on your ride home.
21. “Have You Forgotten?” by Darryl Worley
Song year: 2003
Darryl Worley’s most well-known song is, “Have You Forgotten?” The song is centered on the tragedy of 9/11, and how hard it impacted Americans everywhere. Worley sings about wanting to bring justice to his country and needing to remember those who perished in the Twin Towers attacks.
This song stresses the need to pursue those responsible and is a challenging reminder of a dark time in American history.
22. “Where Were You (When the World Stopped Turning)” by Alan Jackson
Song year: 2002
Next up is another poignant song about 9/11. Many artists channeled their grief through art and music, movingly illustrated by this Jackson track.
Jackson asks the listener where they were on that fateful day. He goes on to wonder how they reacted—was it with anger, disbelief, or overpowering grief. The lyrics continue on this theme, while also revealing the narrator is not political but knows of values like faith and love.
23. “American Made” by The Oak Ridge Boys
Song year: 1983
The Oak Ridge Boys sing the patriotic and clever love song, “American Made.” Its lyrics reflected on how most items on store shelves are imports from other countries. The song compares this with the narrator’s girl, who was born in the USA.
Nevertheless, the narrator wryly observes that she looks fantastic in Mexican-made clothing and adores wearing French perfume. Regardless, he sees her as an All-American.
24. “American Crazy” by Brothers Osborne
Song year: 2016
This catchy tune has lyrics that remind listeners that, deep down, everyone is an American no matter their circumstances. Some might be living paycheck to paycheck, others might be enduring the ups and downs of life. But, no matter what, many have the same dreams and hopes as Americans.
25. “All American” by Mickey Guyton
Song year: 2021
Texas-native Mickey Guyton sings about what being All-American means to him. He mentions things as varied as hotel bibles and jukebox vinyl, tattoos, church pews, night shifts, smoke breaks, and dance floors. Throughout the lyrics, he reminds the listener that everyone is All-American.
26. “American Spirit” by Tom Rhett
Song year: 2015
There are countless American elements in this Tom Rhett tune, and with a name like “American Spirit,” it makes sense. He sings about blue jeans, white tanks, blue eyes, stars and stripes, bud light, and football games.
27. “4th of July” by Dave Alvin
Song year: 1986
This Dave Alvin song is the perfect Independence Day jam for the heartbroken. It has the Fourth of July basics, like fireworks, but it is also a love song to the person Alvin has lost. While everyone celebrates the holiday, Alvin sings about wanting her back.
Top Country Songs About America, Final Thoughts
America the beautiful has given way to some beautiful. The best country songs about America will have you swaying to the beat and maybe even saying the pledge of allegiance afterward.