10 patriotic country songs to add to your 4th of July playlist
Independence Day, July 4, is synonymous with a couple of scenes: burgers on the grill, bathing suits by the pool, and, of course, fireworks in the sky. While everyone's summer memories look a little different, one thing ties them together: great patriotic tunes. Luckily, artists with ties to Music City have produced no shortage of all-American holiday songs. From beloved classics to new releases, here are the tracks you want on your July playlist.
"All-American Girl" (2007) by Carrie Underwood
The second track on Underwood's sophomore album, "Carnival Ride," still endures as one of her best. In that song, "All-American Girl," Underwood sings of a man who has dreamt of a baby boy to take fishing and play football with — "But when the nurse came in with a little pink blanket / All those big dreams changed." In true country music storytelling fashion, the tune shifts, spanning three generations through the bridge. It's the quintessential track for those celebrating with little ones.
"American Kids" (2014) by Kenny Chesney
Despite the title, "American Kids" looks back on the bygone years of American adults. "We were teenage dreamin', front seat leanin' / Baby, come give me a kiss," Chesney sings. The reflective mood is fitting for July 4, one of summer's most nostalgic holidays.
"Southern Nights" (1977) by Glen Campbell
"Have you ever felt a southern night?" Campbell asks on this country-pop tune. The opening chords are iconic, setting the scene for everything from summer baseball games to family barbecues. There's truly nothing quite like a late night in Tennessee, but this song's guitars get close to capturing the vibe.
"Sparks Fly" (2010) by Taylor Swift
If each of Swift's eras was a holiday, "Speak Now" (2010) would surely be Independence Day. "'Cause I see sparks fly, whenever you smile," Swift sings on the album's second track. With rumors of her nuptials on the horizon (the internet seems convinced of a July 3 wedding date), there's even more reason to stream this fan favorite.
"American Spirit" (2016) by Thomas Rhett
Rhett might sing about "Georgia red lipstick" on this song, but the artist grew up in Hendersonville. "American Spirit" details "Bottle rockets blowin' up / Hot dogs servin' up," and while Rhett claims that "It ain't even Fourth of July," this song is certainly belong on the soundtrack to any patriotic celebration.
"Some Gave All" (1992) by Billy Ray Cyrus
Most songs on this list are upbeat, but between the popsicles and the water balloons, July 4 is also a time to remember those who served. Cyrus sings it best: "If you ever think of me, / Think of all your liberties, and recall / Some gave all."
"Party in the U.S.A." (2009) by Miley Cyrus
Admittedly, "Party in the U.S.A." is not a country song. (Cyrus literally sings, "It's definitely not a Nashville party"). But Cyrus — Dolly Parton's goddaughter — also has deep ties to Music City, and this crowd-pleasing hit deserves a spot on the list. Put your hands up. Play the song.
"Color Me America" (2003) by Dolly Parton
This song, written by Parton after the tragic events of 9/11, highlights the "peace and beauty" that many of us are looking for as we look up at the fireworks at the end of Independence Day. "I want justice for us all," Parton sings.
"American Made" (2026) by Trace Adkins
This new release by Adkins honors laborers and farmers just in time for the country's 250thbirthday. The track's melancholy tone captures both the sacrifice and resilience that it takes to make dreams come true. "I'm thankful for it each and every day," Adkins sings, "to be American made."
"Independence Day" (1993) by Martina McBride
McBride's "Independence Day," is famously about a domestic violence victim taking a stand against her abuser. The song's chiming bells and drums evoke the feeling of standing up for yourself and taking ownership of your own life — a reminder we could all use. Let freedom ring, indeed.
In addition to these beloved fan favorites, plenty of local artists will be performing downtown for the two-day festivities starting on July 3. Whether you prefer live music or a playlist for barbecuing at home, everyone in Music City has plenty of opportunities to celebrate local history and culture with uplifting tunes.
This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: 10 patriotic country songs to add to your 4th of July playlist
