Introduction:
“Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue (The Angry American)” by Toby Keith is one of the most iconic and polarizing country songs of the early 2000s. Released in May 2002 as the lead single from Keith’s album Unleashed, the song was born from deeply personal and national tragedies: the death of Keith’s father, a veteran, in early 2001, and the September 11 terrorist attacks later that year. The song channels Keith’s profound anger and patriotism, with lyrics that vividly express defiance and pride in the face of adversity.
Written in just 20 minutes, the song features a combination of personal reflection and nationalistic imagery. Keith initially performed it for U.S. troops, where its impact was immediate, with a commander urging him to officially record it as a morale booster. Its blend of bold, unapologetic lyrics and patriotic themes resonated strongly with many listeners, especially military personnel and their families. However, it also sparked controversy, with some critics, including public figures, labeling its tone as overly aggressive..
The song achieved significant commercial success, topping the U.S. Billboard Country chart and reaching No. 25 on the Billboard Hot 100. Despite its divisive nature, it became a rallying anthem for post-9/11 America, underscoring the emotions of a nation grappling with loss and seeking unity. Its enduring legacy highlights the power of music as a reflection of cultural and emotional landscapes during pivotal historical moments.
Video:
Lyrics:
“Courtesy Of The Red, White And Blue (The Angry American)”
We’ll always stand up and salute
We’ll always recognize
When we see Old Glory Flying
There’s a lot of men dead
So we can sleep in peace at night
When we lay down our head
My daddy served in the army
Where he lost his right eye
But he flew a flag out in our yard
‘Til the day that he died
He wanted my mother, my brother, my sister and me
To grow up and live happy
In the land of the free
Now this nation that I love
Has fallen under attack
A mighty sucker punch came flyin’ in
From somewhere in the back
Soon as we could see it clearly
Through our big black eye
Man, we lit up your world
Like the 4th of July
Hey, Uncle Sam
Put your name at the top of his list
And the Statue of Liberty
Started shakin’ her fist
And the eagle will fly
And there’s gonna be hell
When you hear Mother Freedom
Start ringin’ her bell
And it’ll feel like the whole wide world is raining down on you
Oh, brought to you Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue
Oh, justice will be served
And the battle will rage
This big dog will fight
When you rattle his cage
And you’ll be sorry that you messed with
The U.S. of A
‘Cause we’ll put a boot in your ass
It’s the American way
Hey, Uncle Sam
Put your name at the top of his list
And the Statue of Liberty
Started shakin’ her fist
And the eagle will fly
And there’s gonna be hell
When you hear Mother Freedom
Start ringin’ her bell
And it’ll feel like the whole wide world is raining down on you
Oh, brought to you Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue
Oh, oh, of the Red, White and Blue
Oh, oh, of my Red, White and Blue