Introduction:
“Happy Birthday America” is a song by country music artist Toby Keith, released on June 30, 2021. The track is part of Keith’s album “Peso in My Pocket” which was released later in October 2021. Known for his outspoken and patriotic themes, Toby Keith wrote “Happy Birthday America” as a reflection on the state of the country in contemporary times. The song falls under the country music genre, with Keith’s signature blend of traditional country elements and his storytelling style.
The song’s lyrics convey a sense of nostalgia, pride, and concern for America’s future. Keith, a known patriot, wrote the song during a turbulent period in American history, marked by political division and social unrest. This context is evident in the song, where Keith expresses a mixture of lament and love for his country. The lyrics include lines like, “Seems like everybody’s pissin’ on the red, white and blue,” reflecting a sense of frustration with the country’s current state while still showing a deep respect for its history and ideals.
“Happy Birthday America” achieved a significant response from fans and the country music community upon its release. Although it didn’t climb the mainstream charts like some of Keith’s earlier hits, the song resonated with listeners who share his sentiments about the changing landscape of American culture and politics. The song was particularly well-received during Fourth of July celebrations, as it encapsulates a reflective and somewhat somber view of the nation’s birthday.
The album “Peso in My Pocket” marked Keith’s return after a hiatus of several years, and “Happy Birthday America” stood out as one of its most poignant tracks. The song added to Keith’s legacy as a country artist who isn’t afraid to tackle complex and sometimes controversial subjects through his music, continuing his tradition of blending patriotism with personal and societal reflection.
Video:
Lyrics:
“Happy Birthday America”
It’s the 4th of July
I get to wake up in your freedom
But sometimes I wonder whySeems like everybody’s pissin’
On the red, white and blue
Happy birthday America
Whatever’s left of you
You were the darlin’ when you saved the world
WW I and II
France would just be part of Germany now
If it hadn’t been for you
Now your children want to turn you in
To something other than yourself
They burn your flag in their city streets
More than anybody else
Happy birthday America
It’s the 4th of July
I’ll get to wake up in your freedom
But sometimes I wonder why
Seems like everybody’s pissin’
On the red, white and blue
Happy birthday America
Whatever’s left of you
Who they gonna count on
When you’re not there to take their call
Will the world keep right on spinnin’
Without the greatest of them all
Without the helping hand of God
Your days are numbered my old friend
We’re sure gonna miss you girl
You were the best that’s ever been
Happy birthday America
All the broken-down cities
By the left’s design
And the right can’t seem to get it right
Most of the time
Every time I go to town and vote
I just come home with the blues
The lesser of two evils
All we ever get to choose
Happy birthday America
It’s the 4th of July
I’ll get to wake up in your freedom
But sometimes I wonder why
Seems like everybody’s pissin’
On the red, white and blue
Happy birthday America
Whatever’s left of you
Happy birthday America