Top songs to listen to on the 4th of July

Sweet Home Alabama is a Southern rock anthem that evokes a strong sense of regional identity and pride, resonating with the patriotic spirit of the Fourth of July. Its infectious energy and iconic guitar riff make it a popular choice for celebrations and gatherings.

• American Southern rock song

This song by Bruce Springsteen is a classic that reflects on the experiences of American veterans and the complexities of patriotism. Its powerful lyrics and anthemic sound make it a fitting choice for reflecting on the nation's history.

• Infectious rock energy

• Lyrics evoking the American experience

• Ideal for 4th of July celebrations

Green Day's politically charged anthem provides a punk rock perspective on American society. Its rebellious energy and thought-provoking lyrics offer a different, more critical way to engage with the idea of America on Independence Day.

• Socially conscious lyrics

• Catchy and powerful rhythm

• Iconic popularity in the USA

Miley Cyrus's hit is an upbeat and fun song that captures the excitement and carefree spirit of celebrating in America. Its catchy melody and relatable lyrics make it a popular choice for a festive 4th of July gathering.

• Danceable and catchy rhythm

• Lyrics about American pride

• Popularity in celebrations

• Festive and optimistic energy

Shea Diamond delivers a powerful version of "American Pie" that reinterprets the classic from a contemporary, courageous, and deeply personal perspective. This version invites reflection on who is part of the American Dream, expanding the meaning of freedom and inclusion.

Kenny Chesney's "American Kids" is a vibrant and nostalgic celebration of American youth. With its blend of modern country and lyrics filled with colorful imagery, the song paints a joyful and authentic portrait of growing up in America. Perfect for the Fourth of July, it conveys the free, carefree, and communal spirit that accompanies this holiday.

• Perfect modern country song

A provocative song that portrays the social, racial, and cultural tensions of the United States. Ideal for the Fourth of July if you're looking to reflect on national identity beyond traditional patriotism. Its visual and lyrical impact makes it a must-have on this list.

• Received love and respect

"Surfin' U.S.A." by The Beach Boys is a cheerful, beachy anthem that encapsulates America's summer spirit at its finest. With its vibrant rhythm, sunny harmonies, and lyrics that echo the nation's coastlines, the song is an ideal celebration for the Fourth of July. It evokes images of sun, sea, youth, and freedom—elements that resonate perfectly with the carefree energy of a national holiday that celebrates both independence and the American way of life.

• Wave of summer nostalgia

Dolly Parton's "Jolene," with its unmistakable country slant and heartfelt storytelling, adds a classic and sentimental dimension to any Fourth of July celebration. Though it tells a story of love and vulnerability, her powerful performance and deeply American roots make it a cultural anthem for the American South. On Independence Day, "Jolene" embodies the authenticity of traditional country and the power of the female voices that have defined the sound of rural America.

• Garnered multiple awards

James Brown's "Living in America" is an explosion of patriotic pride, funk, and boundless energy. With its powerful rhythm, unmistakable voice, and straightforward message, the song celebrates the strength, diversity, and hardworking spirit of the country. It's a perfect choice for the Fourth of July, offering a vibrant and resolutely American soundtrack that highlights the dynamism of life in the United States. More than a song, it's a cry of national identity that invites you to dance while celebrating freedom.

• Feel the festive spirit

"Empire State of Mind" by Jay-Z and Alicia Keys is an urban anthem that celebrates the grandeur, ambition, and resilience of New York City. It represents the freedom to aspire, reinvent, and conquer the impossible, highlighting the multicultural identity and inexhaustible energy that define the United States.

• Sounds as fresh as ever

• New York's greatest anthem

John Mellencamp's song pays tribute to the history of rock and roll in America. Its nostalgic lyrics and classic rock sound evoke a sense of American musical heritage, making it a great choice for a 4th of July playlist.

• Lyrics celebrating the American spirit

• Catchy rhythm perfect for parties

• Classic American rock sound

Toby Keith's song celebrates American manufacturing and the hardworking people who contribute to the nation's economy. Its patriotic message and country sound make it a popular choice for those who want to honor American industry.

• Patriotic and energetic rhythm

• Lyrics that exalt national manufacturing

• Festive anthem for the 4th of July

Beyoncé's "Texas Hold 'Em" is a celebration of roots, freedom, and empowerment, perfectly fitting the spirit of the Fourth of July. With country influences mixed with Beyoncé's signature style, the song pays homage to Southern identity and American culture, especially that of her home state of Texas.

• Features dance and energy

With her powerful voice, Kate Smith turned this patriotic anthem into a national classic. It's ideal for the Fourth of July because of its message of unity, hope, and gratitude for the country. It evokes the American spirit and pride in the nation on such a significant date.

• Performed by Kate Smith

• Initially written by Irving Berlin

Estelle's "American Boy," featuring Kanye West, is a modern blend of R&B, pop, and hip-hop that celebrates the charm and appeal of the American lifestyle from an international perspective. Its light, elegant, and cosmopolitan tone is a perfect fit for the Fourth of July, highlighting the global influence of American culture.

• Blends R&B and disco-funk

Simon & Garfunkel's "America" is an introspective ballad that captures yearning, the search for identity, and the complexity of the American Dream. Unlike holiday anthems, this song offers a poetic and melancholic look at the heart of the country, accompanying the Fourth of July with a deeper reflection on what it means to be an American. With its evocative lyrics and contemplative atmosphere, "America" invites us to think not only about independence, but also about the constant journey to find it.

• Tells the story of young lovers traveling across the United States

'This Land is Your Land' is a patriotic anthem that celebrates the beauty and diversity of the United States, resonating deeply with the spirit of the Fourth of July. Its message of unity and belonging makes it an ideal choice for commemorating the country's independence.

"American Pie" evokes a strong sense of nostalgia and reflection on American history and culture. Its epic narrative and catchy chorus make it a popular choice for celebrating patriotic spirit and national identity.

• It's a great song by Don McLean