Top 10 July 4th Tunes

There are tons of patriotic and true Americana songs out there to keep any July 4th celebration red, white and blue. Although many of us focus on the traditional songs, such as 'God Bless America' by Lee Greenwood, this article is about the more unusual and unknown songs that celebrate the U.S. of A's fine heritage. These are songs that sum up the true America that we live day in and day out.

Number 10 on the list is, and pardon those who are offended, is "America, F*ck Yeah" by Trey Parker. This song, showcased in the movie 'Team America: World Police' is meant to be a parody song, however, it truly does define what is true about American culture by naming everything and anything that we think is American. Although I doubt it will be the new anthem of the U.S. anytime soon, this movie has a cult following that will embrace number 10 on the top 10 July 4th songs.

Entering in as Number 9, is "White America", by white rapper, Eminem. Although this tune is filled with explicity lyrics (highly not recommended for BBQ'S where anyone under the age of 18 is attending), Eminem manages to address the issues of race and freedom. A controversial rapper, Eminem puts into lyrics what many think, but do not say. "White America" is the antithesis of what a National Anthem would be, yet says so many daring, and true statements, you can't help but love the poetry.

Green Day's "American Idiot" is sliding into number 8 for it's ability to look at the reality that America is not always as it seems. Denials, tension, broken dreams: it about sums up the life that too many Americans lead. Green Day captures the words that are the reality of many people's lives.

"American Life" rolls in as Number 7 by Madonna. This song questions everything that we wonder while growing up and establishing ourselves in the United States. Asking the questions of 'Who are we?' and 'What are we?', Madonna brings to light the constant struggles Americans face while constantly being fed materialism and gossip.

Number 6 is none other than "Americana" by Offspring. A poetic tale of the materialism and competition surrounding American Culture, "Americana" is the anthem of retailers everywhere. Or should I say, the one that none of the retailers want you to hear.

"America is not the World" by Morrissey is a controversial tune basically telling American to put it where the sun don't shine. Morrissey pushes the envelope by saying that until America accepts all, we refuse to accept America. This tune is put smack in the middle of this top 10 list for originality and spunk.

Jewel rings in number 4 with "America". She speaks of the America that we live in every day with war, and spies, and commercialism. However, she also brings to heart that no matter how much is wrong with this country, we wouldn't leave it if we had the opportunity. She speaks to what many of us feel: we love our country, but so wish we had a say in how it has turned out.

Casting Crowns, a contemporary Christian rock group, brings in number 3 with "American Dreams". Defining a life without God, and putting into perspective the 'all work, no play' philosophy, Casting Crowns captures the spirit that is the workaholic American. As many of us are faced with wanting finer things in life, we tend to turn away from the more lasting things beyond this world. Welcome to America.

"Hand to Mouth" by George Michael is a depressing revelation about the deceptions of American life. Living the American dream is not always as we dream it will be, and George Michael embraces this fact in this song, number 2 on the list.

Number one on the top 10 July 4th songs, is "Everyday America" by Sugarland. Every July 4th celebration needs a bit of the positive. "Everyday America" embraces the positive by holding onto the American Dream, despite the ups and down along the ride.

July 4th doesn't have to be a traditional fest, but it is a time to reflect upon the greatness of America, and the weaknesses of our home country. So, pop in a little Lee Greenwood for old times' sake, but do not forget to remember the reality that is war, pain and anguish in this American journey to our dreams.