4th of July is one of the most celebrated days for Americans, with fireworks, celebrations, and patriotism being the day’s main themes. And what better way to celebrate your country’s independence than by putting the best 4th of July songs on a blast!
We have curated a list of the 50 best 4th of July songs that include tracks that fill your body with a patriotic spirit as well as songs that you can party to with your friends and family on America’s birthday. These songs show what it’s like to live in America, the land of freedom and peace!
Here are the 50 Best 4th of July Songs
- The Pledge of Allegiance
- God Bless the USA
- The Star Spangled Banner
- Born in The USA
- You’re a Grand Old Flag
- The Stars and Stripes Forever
- Ragged Old Flag
- American Spirit
- America
- This Land is Your Land
- Living in America
- Party in the U.S.A
- Some Gave All
- Color Me America
- Firework
- American Heart
- This is America
- Back in The USA
- Almost Independence Day
- Only in America
- Celebration
- American Child
- American Pie
- My Country Tis of Thee
- American Woman
- Independence Day
- American Saturday Night
- 4th of July
- America The Beautiful
- Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue
- R.O.C.K In The U.S.A
- In America
- One Nation Under a Groove
- Living in The Promise Land
- Fortunate Son
- Kids In America
- Philadelphia Freedom
- Red White and Blue
- Fly Over States
- National Anthem
- A More Perfect Union
- American Baby
- Our Country
- God Bless America
- Mission Temple Fireworks Stand
- America’s Sweetheart
- America Will Survive
- American Soldier
- Fourth of July
- America
1. The Pledge of Alliance
Francis Bellamy wrote The Pledge of Alliance which is a patriotic oath, instead of a song with lyrics, that the citizens of America recite at events and in schools. People recite this pledge to show their devotion and allegiance to their homeland and its flag.
It focuses on justice, equality, freedom, and unity among the people and how these themes are honored in the USA. This vow instills a feeling of patriotism in people, making them want to commit to and protect the values of their country.
2. God Bless the USA
Lee Greenwood wrote the iconic patriotic anthem “God Bless the USA” which shows his pride over his American heritage. The opportunities and freedom that the USA provided him with heavily influenced this song.
Greenwood says in an interview that the lyric “I’m proud to be an American where at least I know I’m free,” is for every American who has lost children in conflict combat. His dad was in the Navy, fought in World War II, and survived it.
3. The Star Spangled Banner
Next on the list is the national anthem of the United States, written by Francis Scott Key, “The Star Spangled Banner”. The poem was written by Key after witnessing a horrifying incident, the bombing of McHenry Fort, during the War of 1812.
The song admires the resilience and strength of Americans in the face of hardship. The anthem is sung at national events, the most famous rendition being by Whitney Houston at the Superbowl.
4. Born in the U.S.A.
This song was written by Bruce Springsteen and the upbeat melody of the song often hides the true meaning of its lyrics. After the Vietnam War, which was the first war that the US lost, the veterans were not treated very nicely by Americans.
Springsteen criticizes the unjust treatment of war veterans upon their return to the country in this song. The song also displays the struggles of the working class in those times.
5. You’re A Grand Old Flag
George M. Cohan wrote this song 121 years ago after the Civil War, a tribute to the veterans who fought bravely in the war. The American flag is portrayed as a symbol of hope, love, and unity.
The song was originally named “You’re a Grand Old Rag” but after backlash, it was changed. Cohan was initially inspired to write the song after seeing a veteran holding an old, tattered American flag.
6. The Stars and Stripes Forever
The Stars and Stripes Forever does not have any songs and is a patriotic march composed by John Philip Sousa. It has a very upbeat tempo and is a blend of many instruments.
This masterpiece gives rise to patriotism in everyone and was John’s most famous march. That is why it is played at rallies, events, parades most importantly on the 4th of July. We recommend you give this march a try, it will not disappoint you!
7. Ragged Old Flag
In his famous and powerful son, Ragged Old Flag, Johnny Cash talks about the unwavering spirit of the American flag. The song starts with Johnny narrating a story an old man told him who was holding a ragged old flag.
The song reminds everyone of the sacrifices Americans made so that others could live a free, peaceful life in their country. The song is loved by many and was #31 on the Country Singles charts in 1974.
8. American Spirit
This song is a very recent release by Thomas Rett, who sings beautifully about the young and hopeful spirit of Americans. Rett shows the love, and appreciation he feels for his homeland and its people.
He expresses his gratitude for the opportunities this land has given him which refers to the accolades he has won in his career.
9. America
We suggest you listen to Neil Diamond’s emotional song America as it can make any American patriot feel moved. He talks about the journey of immigrants while traveling to the land of free ie., America.
It talks about the struggles they face, the hesitancy of living in a new country, and the opportunities of starting a new life. In an interview, Diamond said this song is a gift to his grandparents as it’s their story being told in the song.
10. This Land Is Your Land
The folk singer Woody Guthrie wrote This Land Is Your Land amount the landscape of the United States and the diversity you find there. Moreover, he also talks about the struggles people face on this land.
“God Blessed America For Me” was its original name but it was changed after a while. If you want a patriotic song thats hows America’s reality without glamorizing it then this song is for you!
11. Living In America
James Brown wrote Living in America which is still to this day, a 4th of July Anthem. This instrumental masterpiece can make anyone stand up and start dancing along.
This song perfectly showcases the spirit of Americans. This catchy work of art was #1 on US Billboard Hot Dance Music and was also featured in the movie “Rocky IV”
12. Party in the U.S.A
Our personal favorite on this list is the famous 4th of July party song, Party in the USA by Miley Cyrus. The song centers on the excitement of arriving in America, and the nervousness of it at the beginning.
The upbeat melody and Miley’s strong voice made this song a huge sensation. It has many certifications including #2 on Billboard Hot 100. We urge you to check this infectious song out if you haven’t heard of it already!
13. Some Gave All
Years before his daughter Miley Cyrus released the 4th of July banger, Billy Ray Cyrus wrote a heartfelt and touching tribute to the veterans and military. This song talks about the sacrifices the army makes to protect the citizens of their beloved country,
While not our personal favorite, this song still showcases marvelously how “some gave all” for this country. The song was #1 on the US Billboard 200.
14. Color Me America
The legendary Dolly Parton’s song Color Me America revolves around the diverse culture of America. It celebrates the multicultural background of the USA and how all of it influences their collective dreams.
Parton uses the three colors, red, blue, and white to express different emotions. Red shows the American blood that is shed, and blue shows the feeling when calamity occurs. Lastly, the white shows the pure love she feels for this flag and country.
15. Firework
Another famous 4th of July party song is Firework by renowned pop star Katy Perry. This song is an inspiring anthem that encourages people to have confidence in themselves. She encourages listeners to embrace their spark and shine, like a firework.
The song went Platinum 12 times in the USA and even after 12 years is considered a 4th of July anthem. This song holds a nostalgic feeling for many, including us, and we would highly suggest you listen to it.
16. American Heart
In this song, Faith Hill sings about the unwavering spirit of an American heart. She highlights the unbreakable spirit of Americans who push forward no matter what.
Hill tells in an interview that this song inspires, the times are hard and people are struggling but the American spirit always prevails.
17. This is America
Childish Gambino’s song This is America went viral for the real portrayal of America. Unlike other patriotic songs, this one shows the dark and ugly side of America, the gun violence and racism US citizens face every day.
We recommend you watch the music video of this song, a brilliant masterpiece. Gambino says “You can’t escape the violence” in an interview with the Times while talking about this song and its meaning.
18. Back in the U.S.A
Just like the name suggests, the song Back in the USA is about the happiness and excitement of being back home, on American soil after ages. Chuck Berry wrote and composed this rock anthem that is loved by many.
This song is also about the cheerfulness people feel post-war. The American spirit is also a main theme in this track.
19. Almost Independence Day
This song is an iconic banger by country music singer, Van Morrison. In this track, the singer recalls the vibe and atmosphere at a 4th of July celebration. He also reflects on trailing after personal freedom.
The song has a nostalgic feeling to it and it makes you take a trip down memory lane yourself. We recommend you listen to this song even though it has been critically reviewed by many.
20. Only in America
Brooks & Dunn wrote Only in America to highlight the long list of opportunities available for everyone in the land of America. The lyrics about the dreams that lead to success are paired with lively melodies to inspire people.
Any American patriot who listens to this song is immediately filled with a sense of pride, that anyone can fulfill their dreams on their land. The song was #1 on US Hot Country Songs (Billboard) in 2001.
21. Celebration
This song is a generic party song played to celebrate events, such as the 4th of July. Kool & The Gang wrote this song and composed catchy tunes and beats to create this musical masterpiece.
The lyrics encourage the listeners to come together, no matter who they are, and celebrate the happiness in life together. We suggest you listen to this joyous and feel-good song as it is a personal favorite of ours! Its certifications speak for itself.
22. American Child
Phil Vassar recalls his childhood experiences of growing up in America and the gratefulness he feels that he was born American. Vassar sings about the nostalgia he feels when he recounts how easy life used to be back then.
This is an autobiographical song in which Vassar’s hardships are shown but in an interview, he said that now he’s living a life he loves. He also said that when he counts his blessings, he thanks God that he was an American child.
23. American Pie
Don McLean wrote the famous eight-minute song, American Pie, about the drastic political and cultural changes in the 1960s in the USA. The tragic plane crash called “The Day the Music Died” that took the lives of Ritchie Valens, Buddy Holly, and J.P. Richardson is also talked about.
The song is nostalgic and reminiscent of old times, including the Vietnam War. McLean further explained the meaning of his song 50 years later in an interview with Forbes.
24. My Country Tis of Thee
Samuel F. Smith wrote the patriotic American anthem, My Country Tis of Thee, to celebrate the values of the United States. This includes the spirit, unity, bravery, and freedom of the country.
This unofficial national anthem can make any American’s pride and appreciation for their country rise.
25. American Woman
The Guess Who wrote American Woman as an anti-American song but it turned out to be a hit that everyone loved. The song criticizes the USA’s involvement in the Vietnam War. We recommend this song to you which was #1 on US Billboard Hot 100 in 1970.
The lyric “American woman, stay away from me” is symbolized as the rejection of American values and ideals. We would like to state that this is our interpretation of the song as the exact meaning of it remains a mystery to this day.
26. Independence Day
The song Independence Day by Martina McBride is originally about a mother and daughter who are stuck in an abusive relationship. The two leave this torture on Independence Day which is symbolized as freedom for them.
The song about abuse has been mistaken as a patriotic anthem to this day. This is because of its emotional lyrics that show the courage and strength of those fighting oppression.
27. American Saturday Night
Iconic country singer, Brad Paisley, wrote American Saturday Night to appreciate the diverse culture of America. He sings about the impact of different cultures and their traditions on many things such as food and fashion.
Paisley said to Billboard that this song shows the vibes of a Saturday night, the energetic, positive day when Americans come together to celebrate life and have fun. We recommend you watch the music video of this song, a lighthearted and funny entertainment piece.
28. 4th of July
Written by Soundgarden and sung by Chris Cornell, 4th of July is a song that people have given many meanings to. It is said by some to be about a person’s internal journey in life and dealing with an existential crisis.
Others say it is a political commentary, shining light on the social unrest and criticizing the government.
29. America the Beautfiul
This patriotic anthem was written by Katharine Lee Bates to celebrate America and its beauty. From the beautiful landscapes to the loving people, this song appreciates everything about this country.
Samuel A. Ward composed this beautiful song and to this day, the song is covered by many people including Frank Sinatra.
30. Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue
This song is a country music hit by Toby Keith who wrote this song after 9/11 to show his anger towards the terrorist attack. He sings with rage about the attack and that he and his people will come back with a strong response.
The song was loved by many but also criticized for its resentful tone. The song was #1 on US Hot Country Songs (Billboard) in 2002.
31. R.O.C.K In The U.S.A
One of our favorites in this list is the rock anthem by John Mellencamp who is seen appreciating the cultural and musical diversity in America. He acknowledges the influence rock n roll had on the music industry in the 1960s.
We would 100% suggest you give this song a chance, especially if you’re a fan of rock music. The song was #2 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 in 1986.
32. In America
If you want to listen to a song about America’s values and appreciation for it then you should listen to In America by Charlie Daniels Band. This song also shows the resilient spirit of Americans in the face of challenges.
Charlie refers to himself as a “flag-wavering patriot” in an interview and you can see that very clearly in his song as well.
33. One Nation Under a Groove
Funkadelic released the funk track One Nation Under a Groove to bring people together with music. This song promotes unity among people, to forget each other’s backgrounds and stand together.
This track was on the album that went platinum in the US hence we recommend you listen to this funk masterpiece.
34. Living in The Promise Land
Living in The Promise Land is a country song by Willie Nelson that sings about the famous American dream and the opportunities that are given in this promised land.
The song covers many topics such as immigration and equality and how people who come to this land can start a better life.
35. Fortunate Son
This song by Creedence Clearwater Revival is a protest song about the inequality during the Vietnam War. The privileged were criticized for avoiding military service while the lower class had to face the brunt of the war.
The song went platinum 3 times in the USA and after reviewing it ourselves, we suggest you give it a listen as well.
36. Kids In America
The iconic song, Kids in America, is our personal favorite, mainly because of its nostalgic vibe that Kim Wilde portrays terrifically. The song celebrates American youth and their energetic spirit.
We highly suggest you to listen to this UK Singles #2 hit! You will surely love it.
37. Philadelphia Freedom
This song is by Elton John who dedicated it to his beloved friend Billie Jean King. as you can guess by the title, the song celebrates the heritage and freedom of Philadelphia.
We urge you to give this lighthearted song a listen as it will brighten your mood.
38. Red, White & Blue
Lynerd Skynerd made the most patriotic song called Red, White & Blue, which beautifully shows the sense of pride every American feels for their homeland. This song appreciates the heritage, tradition, and values of the US.
The song was #27 on the Billboard Mainstream Rock chart in 2003.
39. Fly Over The States
Jason Aldean wrote this song to shine a light on the overlooked areas in the US which are called “flyover states”. People overlook these states in favor of more popular states.
He talks about the people in American rural areas, their values, and spirit and how they should be respected and appreciated more.
40. National Anthem
Lana Del Rey is a music genius and National Anthem is a masterpiece that combines love with political symbolism along with the American culture. The song is based on John F. Kennedy and his wife, Jacqueline Kennedy and their love story.
The song went platinum in the USA and to this day is considered a complex and iconic song.
41. A More Perfect Union
Titus Andronicus’s song A More Perfect Union is about the history and politics of the United States. It has themes of rebellion and struggle for a better America.
The band displays their social and political thoughts by pairing them with rock-punk music.
42. American Baby
Dave Matthews Band made a brilliant song portraying the journey of self-discovery, yearning, and the pursuit of the American dream. We suggest you listen to this catchy song.
The vocals and instrumental beats paired with the urge to have personal growth can be relatable to many people. It also touches upon the darker side of America.
43. Our Country
John Mellencamp sang Our Country is about American history and the surviving spirit of its citizens. The song praises as well as criticizes the country, hence why it is loved by many.
It is a lovely song that people play on the 4th of July to celebrate their homeland.
44. God Bless America
Written by Irving Berlin, this famous patriotic anthem is sung at major events. It praises the spirit and ideals of America and sends blessings upon it.
People feel national pride when they listen to this song, especially with Irving’s soft vocals.
45. Mission Temple Fireworks Stand
If lively songs are your type then Sawyer Brown’s Mission Temple Fireworks Stand is your type. The song is a humorous telling of a makeshift church in a fireworks stand.
The song combines elements of faith with celebrations and American culture. And when you think about it, isn’t that what the 4th of July is about?
46. America’s Sweetheart
Elle King’s song America’s Sweetheart is the perfect song for fearless and unapologetic women. The song talks about independence, rebellion, and self-expression.
The song was a hit even outside of the US, as it went platinum in Canada.
47. America Will Survive
Hank Williams Jr. is a country music singer and America Will Survive is about the challenges Americans faced but didn’t falter after them. The song was written after 9/11.
It was originally called “Country Boy Can Survive” but Hank changed the lyrics of the song after the tragic incident.
48. American Soldier
Toby Keith has another patriotic song on this list, called American Soldier. This song highlights the sacrifices made by the military to protect the US citizens.
He shows his immense gratitude and respect for the military and thanks them for their services in this heartfelt track.
49. Fourth Of July
Fall Out Boy’s song Fourth of July is a heartbreak anthem that uses the 4th of July as a metaphor for what it’s like to be in a relationship. The “fireworks” of the narrator led to the ending of the relationship.
50. America
Simon & Garfunkel wrote a song about a couple and their search across America for a meaning to life. It shows their desire to break free from the norms and live life according to their rules.
The adventurous couple try to find a deeper meaning of love and life in the lands of America. The song was #46 on the US Billboard Hot 100 in 1972.
FAQs
Which song is the most played on the 4th of July?
The Star-Spangled Banner, Whitney Houston’s version is said to be played the most on the 4th of July.
What is July most famous for?
July is most famous for America’s Independence from Great Britain. The 4th of July is considered the most important holiday for US citizens.
Which song was made after 9/11 and is still played on the 4th of July to this day?
The song “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue” by Toby Keith was written after 9/11. The song gave hope to people to stay strong during tough times. It is still played on the 4th of July as a patriotic anthem.