10 Songs to Make Fourth of July Gatherings Great

When I attend a party, I like to hear music that makes me feel good - something I can dance along with. And even though I don't have the best singing voice, I want songs that I can sing along with, too.

Everyone loves to hear patriotic songs at a Fourth of July party or barbecue. The songs make people feel good about being an American. And what better way to do that than to have good dancing music?

Sure, the traditional marches are great, but what about those "off the wall" songs. A patriotic song doesn't always have to be about the flag. Patriotic songs can also be about America and the people that live in this great country of ours. Here are my top 10 songs for Fourth of July parties or barbecues.

10. Centerfield by John Fogerty. Baseball. Americas favorite sport. My favorite place to be on July 4th is a ball park. Centerfield is not only a song you can dance to, but it brings back those childhood memories of either playing the game, or watching it from the fence. It can also remind us of how fun it is to be an American. Play ball!

9. Small Town by John Mellencamp. The singer/songwriter that is the musical icon for America. In all of his songs he writes about the ups and downs of our country. This song makes us proud of where we came from. Even if you are from the city, Small Town is a feel good song for everyone.

8. R.O.C.K. In The U.S.A by John Mellencamp. Get your July 4th party or barbeque rocking with another favorite by Mellencamp. A song about the music icons of the 60's.

7. Living In America by James Brown. One of Rocky's many theme songs. Turn up the volume at your party and you'll have the whole neighborhood singing along to this song!

6. Surfing USA by The Beach Boys. What is a summer party without a surfing song? Nothing. A fun song for all ages.

5. God Bless The USA by Lee Greenwood. A patriotic love song at it's best.

4. William Tell Overture composed by Gioachino Rossini. Grab onto the shoulder of the guy or girl in front of you and start galloping around the the yard. A fun line dance for all ages.

3. The Star Spangled Banner written by Francis Scott Key. The National Anthem. A great song that everyone knows the words too. Sing this right before the fireworks start.

2. Marines Hymn The Oldest official song in the Unites States Military. A fun and patriotic song to start the fireworks off with.

1. Stars and Stripes Forever composed by John Phillip Sousa. I think Sousa's version is the best. Make this song your grand finale to your Fourth of July party or barbecue. Everyone will be humming this tune as they head home.

I guarantee that these songs will make your Fourth of July party or barbeque a day to remember what living in America is all about.