With the help of this compiled playlist of the top
Veterans Day songs, consider the significance of the national occasion.
Veterans Day is a legal holiday in the United States honoring American veterans of all conflicts. In 2022, it will fall on Friday, November 11. An armistice, or temporary cessation of hostilities, was announced between the Allies and Germany in World War I, then known as “the Great War,” in 1918, at the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month.
Veterans Day is a day set aside to honor individuals who have served in the armed forces of the United States. But it’s also a day to consider what it means to be an American, much like on July 4, Memorial Day, and, to some extent, Labor Day. The themes of sacrifice and patriotism are touched upon in this collection of the top Veterans Day songs, which spans the entirety of the past, present, and future experiences of Americans.
These songs range from the enthusiastic and anthemic to the more reflective (and possibly even slightly critical) reflections on what it means to be an American. They are songs that we should sing while celebrating the United States without ignoring its flaws and injustices. Simply put, the best Veterans Day songs will stir up a profound emotion within you.
No.1 – ‘Ragged Old Flag’ by Johnny Cash
This spoken-word ballad, which serves as the album’s title track and is by Johnny Cash, is a moving tribute to the patriotism that endured during the Watergate crisis. Cash is a legend in America, and his message here is powerful.
No.2 – ‘The Star Spangled Banner’ by Jimi Hendrix
It may be a standard at sporting events across the nation, but it’s possible that no performer since Hendrix has given the National Anthem such unadulterated iconoclasm.
No.3 – ‘Pink Houses’ by John Mellencamp
Mellencamp encourages America to uphold its promise of liberty and justice for all as he sings openly about racial inequity in the country. This belongs in the category “Veterans Day songs to make you think.”
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No.4 – ‘Living in America’ by James Brown
The 1985 comeback song by Brown (from Rocky IV, no less) combines funk with pride in a smooth, groovy tune about a big, beautiful country full of people who are just like us. Get up right now!
No.5 – ‘The Fightin’ Side of Me’ by Merle Haggard
This fiery country song provided a counterbalance to the idealism of the Summer of Love in 1969 by connecting with the country’s good ol’ boys.
No.6 – ‘Kids in America’ by The Muffs
Clueless famously included this angst-filled song, a version of a new wave favorite by British singer Kim Wilde. It will undoubtedly strike a chord with America’s sulky, scornful youth for a very long time since it is tough and spirited.
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No.7 – ‘Born in the USA’ by Bruce Springsteen
Don’t be misled by the song’s grandiose and anthemic sound; The Boss is actually bemoaning how poorly Vietnam War soldiers are treated in this song. It’s an outstanding work of sincere social observation that is still moving today.
No.8 – ‘American Pie’ by Don McLean
McLean refuses to clarify the meaning of the words to this well-known song from 1971 despite repeated requests. Such explication-seekers might be said to be driving their Chevys to the levy and coming up empty. It’s worth listening to again Madonna’s glistening William Orbit-produced cover version from 2000.
No.9 – ‘America’ by Neil Diamond
At its best, America is a shining haven for the huddled people who long to be free, and Diamond’s lovely crooning captures that essence perfectly. It’s an understatedly moving listen.
No.10 – ‘Merican’ by Descendents
The narrator’s patriotism is juxtaposed with America’s complicated history in this punk song. Before you claim to be proud, you must know the truth, as the song sings.
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