Introduction:
Released in the aftermath of the September 11 attacks, Toby Keith‘s “Courtesy Of The Red, White And Blue (The Angry American)” became a powerful and divisive cultural touchstone. The track, a raw, in-your-face country anthem, captured the raw emotions and defiant spirit of a nation reeling from the tragedy.
The song, released in 2002 as the lead single from Keith’s album “Unleashed,” quickly ascended the charts, becoming one of the biggest country hits of the decade. Produced by James Stroud and Toby Keith himself, the track’s stripped-down production allowed Keith’s potent vocals and lyrics to take center stage.
“Courtesy Of The Red, White And Blue” is undeniably a product of its time. It taps into the collective anger and determination felt by many Americans following the attacks. The song’s lyrics are a blunt and unapologetic declaration of patriotism, with Keith singing about the strength of the American people and the country’s military might. It’s a song that both celebrates American values and warns potential adversaries of the nation’s resolve.
While the song resonated with many, it also faced criticism for its aggressive tone and perceived jingoism. Nevertheless, “Courtesy Of The Red, White And Blue” remains a significant cultural artifact, reflecting a specific moment in American history. It showcases Toby Keith’s ability to connect with his audience on a deeply emotional level and to create music that is both commercially successful and culturally relevant.
Video:
Lyrics:
“Courtesy Of The Red, White And Blue (The Angry American)”
American Girls and American Guys
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 headMy 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 freeNow 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 JulyHey, 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 BlueOh, 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 wayHey, 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