Toby Keith is not one to be shy about what he believes. And when it comes to his love for America, Keith is a patriot. That’s why he decided to write a song in honor of the birthday of the United States of America and release it in time for the July 4th holiday. Now, his message about patriotism and the love for all things red, white, and blue has struck a chord with some Americans and has become a talking point.
Although America has become politically divided between Republicans and Democrats, Keith’s song coasts over the divide by making it clear that the country needs some healing to do. The song is a reminder to love all the great things about America. But also to look at it for what it is and be honest about what the country stands for.
“Happy Birthday America” by Country music legend Toby Keith
Happy birthday America
It’s the 4th of July
I 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 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 JulyI’ 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
Toby Keith wrote the song while watching the Fourth of July fireworks from a boat in 2020. The song was inspired from a moment with his friend, who said: “Happy Fourth of July, big dog,” to which Keith responded, “Happy birthday, America… whatever’s left of you.”
According to CMT, Keith recalled, “It had been a screwed up 18 months. I was seeing both sides having concern over the end of democracy. We’ve fought and divided almost to the point it’s only about power and winning. Charlie Daniels had a song saying, ‘God save us all from religion.’ And I’m thinking,’ God save us all from politicians.’”
