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1. “Born in the U.S.A.” by Bruce Springsteen
Springsteen’s 1984 hit isn’t just a stadium favorite—it’s a song that’s become deeply woven into the American fabric. Despite its anthemic chorus, the lyrics are a critical reflection on the struggles of Vietnam veterans. The track topped charts worldwide and has been referenced in political rallies, Super Bowl halftime shows, and Fourth of July celebrations. In a 2022 Rolling Stone poll, “Born in the U.S.A.” was voted one of the top ten most iconic American songs. The song has sold over 30 million copies globally, and its chorus is instantly recognizable even to those who don’t know the verses. Springsteen’s red-white-and-blue headband look became a pop culture staple, and the track’s use at both celebratory and protest events shows its complex legacy. It’s an anthem that encourages both pride and reflection—sometimes at the same time.
2. “This Land Is Your Land” by Woody Guthrie
Written in 1940 as a response to “God Bless America,” Woody Guthrie’s folk classic has been sung by schoolchildren, activists, and presidents alike. The Library of Congress lists it as one of the most important American recordings of the 20th century. Statistically, it’s one of the most covered songs in U.S. folk history—performed by Pete Seeger, Bob Dylan, and even Bruce Springsteen at Obama’s 2009 inauguration. The song is often played at protest marches and during national crises, including after 9/11 and during the 2020 Black Lives Matter demonstrations. According to NPR, it’s referenced in over 400 published works and is taught in more than half of U.S. elementary schools. Its easy melody and hopeful lyrics have helped it endure for decades as a true people’s anthem.
3. “God Bless America” by Irving Berlin
Penned in 1918 and revised in 1938, “God Bless America” is a song that’s been sung in times of war, peace, and sporting victory. Kate Smith’s 1938 recording became so popular during World War II that it was broadcast daily on the radio. Today, Major League Baseball teams such as the New York Yankees play it during the seventh-inning stretch at home games. According to Billboard, the song’s resurgence after 9/11 caused a 300% spike in digital downloads. Its simple plea for national unity has made it a go-to for ceremonies and memorials, and it’s been performed at nearly every presidential inauguration since Eisenhower. The song’s ability to unite people during difficult times is unmatched.
4. “America the Beautiful” by Katharine Lee Bates & Samuel A. Ward
First published as a poem in 1895, “America the Beautiful” was later set to music and has been a favorite alternative to the national anthem ever since. The song frequently tops Gallup polls asking Americans which tune should be the national anthem if “The Star-Spangled Banner” were ever replaced. Ray Charles’ soulful 1972 version brought renewed attention to the song, and it has since been performed by Beyoncé, Aretha Franklin, and Elvis Presley. It’s a staple at Memorial Day and Independence Day events, and according to the Smithsonian, it’s played at naturalization ceremonies across the country. Its vivid imagery of “spacious skies” and “amber waves of grain” has helped define the American landscape in song.
5. “The Star-Spangled Banner” by Francis Scott Key
Though it’s the official national anthem, the story behind “The Star-Spangled Banner” is just as dramatic as its performance. Written during the War of 1812, the song was officially adopted as the national anthem in 1931. According to the National Anthem Project, it’s performed at over 16,000 public events every year in the U.S. Notable renditions by Whitney Houston at Super Bowl XXV and Jimi Hendrix at Woodstock have become legendary, sparking millions of YouTube views and countless debates. In recent years, it’s been at the center of social and political movements, with athletes kneeling or raising fists during performances. The song’s high notes and patriotic lyrics continue to stir emotions and debate across generations.
6. “Take Me Home, Country Roads” by John Denver
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photo back, Public domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=21911722)
Released in 1971, John Denver’s ode to West Virginia is now beloved far beyond the state’s borders. The song hit #2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and has since been played at sporting events, rallies, and weddings nationwide. In 2014, it was named one of West Virginia’s official state songs. Spotify data from 2023 showed it was streamed over 300 million times, and it’s a staple at karaoke bars and graduation ceremonies. The song’s gentle melody and nostalgic lyrics evoke a longing for home that resonates with Americans of all backgrounds. It’s a reminder that sometimes, an anthem isn’t about a country—it’s about the feeling of belonging.
7. “Sweet Home Alabama” by Lynyrd Skynyrd
What started as a response to Neil Young’s “Southern Man” became a rock anthem for the ages. “Sweet Home Alabama,” released in 1974, is now played at sporting events, BBQs, and political rallies across the country. According to BMI, it’s one of the most played songs in the history of American radio, with over 3 million spins. The opening guitar riff is instantly recognizable and often used in commercials and movies to signal Americana. In 2022, Rolling Stone ranked it in their top 100 greatest songs of all time. The song’s blend of pride, rebellion, and rock swagger makes it a Southern anthem that’s gone national.
8. “Living in America” by James Brown
James Brown brought funk to patriotism with his 1985 hit “Living in America.” Featured in “Rocky IV,” the song became synonymous with American bravado during the Cold War. Its infectious beat and Brown’s electrifying performance turned it into a dance floor staple, and it peaked at #4 on the Billboard Hot 100. The track has been used in everything from Fourth of July parades to political campaign rallies, and it’s still a favorite for sporting event playlists. According to the Recording Industry Association of America, “Living in America” remains one of Brown’s top-selling singles. The song’s exuberant celebration of American life is impossible to ignore.
9. “American Pie” by Don McLean
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photo back, Public domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=20148770)
Don McLean’s 1971 epic is more than just a song—it’s a journey through American history. Clocking in at over eight minutes, “American Pie” topped the charts for weeks and was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2002. Its mysterious lyrics have been dissected by fans and academics alike, with many interpreting the song as a reflection on the loss of innocence in America. According to Billboard, the song experienced renewed popularity after being featured in the 1999 film “American Pie,” and it’s been covered by Madonna and Garth Brooks. “American Pie” has become a staple at singalongs, school dances, and even political rallies. Its chorus—“Bye, bye Miss American Pie”—is now shorthand for nostalgia and change.
10. “Rockin’ in the Free World” by Neil Young
Released in 1989, “Rockin’ in the Free World” quickly became a rallying cry for freedom and protest. Neil Young performed the song at the Berlin Wall in 1989, symbolizing the end of the Cold War. It’s frequently played at political rallies and was famously used by both Republican and Democratic campaigns, sometimes causing controversy. According to Spotify, the song saw a 200% spike in streams during the 2020 U.S. presidential election. The driving guitar riff and pointed lyrics continue to inspire new generations of activists and music lovers. Neil Young’s anthem is as relevant today as when it was first released.
11. “Party in the U.S.A.” by Miley Cyrus
This pop anthem took the country by storm in 2009, peaking at #2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and selling over 7 million copies in the U.S. alone. “Party in the U.S.A.” is a staple at celebrations, summer barbecues, and even political rallies. During the 2020 presidential election, the song experienced a viral resurgence on TikTok, with millions using it as the soundtrack for voting and victory celebrations. Miley Cyrus herself performed it at the 2021 inauguration celebration for President Joe Biden. Its catchy chorus and upbeat vibe have made it an intergenerational favorite, especially among young Americans.
12. “We’re Not Gonna Take It” by Twisted Sister
This 1984 rock anthem became a soundtrack for rebellion and protest. “We’re Not Gonna Take It” was adopted by political activists, teachers’ strikes, and even anti-lockdown protests during the COVID-19 pandemic. The song’s music video has over 100 million views on YouTube, and it’s been featured in movies, commercials, and television shows for decades. According to a 2021 Billboard report, the song saw a 150% increase in streaming after being used at political rallies. Its simple, defiant message resonates with anyone who’s ever wanted to stand up and be heard.
13. “Born to Run” by Bruce Springsteen
Springsteen’s second entry on this list, “Born to Run,” is a song about escape, hope, and the American dream. Released in 1975, it became an instant classic, peaking at #23 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song is a favorite at sporting events and has been used in countless films and TV shows to evoke a sense of freedom. The New Jersey legislature once tried to make it the state’s official anthem. Springsteen’s electrifying performances of “Born to Run” are legendary, with live versions often stretching to ten minutes or more. It’s a song that inspires people to chase their dreams—no matter the odds.
14. “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue (The Angry American)” by Toby Keith
Released in the wake of 9/11, Toby Keith’s anthem surged in popularity, reaching #1 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. The song was performed for U.S. troops overseas and became a staple at patriotic rallies and events. According to Nielsen SoundScan, it sold over 1.5 million digital copies in its first year. Its blunt lyrics and defiant tone sparked controversy, but also made it an anthem for a nation grappling with shock and anger. Keith’s performance of the song at the Pentagon in 2002 was broadcast to millions and is still cited as a defining post-9/11 moment.
15. “My Country, ‘Tis of Thee” by Samuel Francis Smith
Often called “America,” this 19th-century hymn has been sung at inaugurations, protests, and classrooms for over 180 years. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. famously quoted it in his 1963 “I Have a Dream” speech, cementing its place in American history. According to the Library of Congress, it was the de facto national anthem before “The Star-Spangled Banner” was adopted. The song’s melody is shared with the British anthem “God Save the King,” but its lyrics are distinctly American. It continues to be a go-to for patriotic ceremonies and moments of national reflection.
16. “Fight the Power” by Public Enemy
Released in 1989, “Fight the Power” became the anthem of a generation demanding change. Featured in Spike Lee’s film “Do the Right Thing,” the song’s powerful lyrics have been cited in over 500 academic papers, according to JSTOR. During the 2020 Black Lives Matter protests, it saw a 400% increase in streams on Apple Music. Chuck D and Flavor Flav have performed it at rallies for decades, and it’s often chanted at protests and demonstrations. “Fight the Power” is a reminder that American anthems aren’t always about celebration—they can be about confronting injustice, too.
17. “God Bless the U.S.A.” by Lee Greenwood
Since its release in 1984, “God Bless the U.S.A.” has been performed at nearly every major national event, including the 1988 Republican National Convention and post-9/11 memorials. The song hit #7 on the Billboard Hot 100 after the September 11 attacks and remains a favorite at Fourth of July celebrations. According to Nielsen, it’s one of the most played patriotic songs on American radio, with over 5 million downloads. Greenwood’s live performances for U.S. troops have become a tradition, and the song’s chorus is often sung by crowds at rallies and sporting events.
18. “Yankee Doodle” (Traditional)
![18. “Yankee Doodle” (Traditional) (image credits: Library of Congress[1], Public domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=5106636)](https://festivaltopia.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/1751839554005_Yankee_Doodle_Boy_6.jpg)
This tune dates back to the 18th century and was sung by both British and American troops during the Revolutionary War. Over the centuries, it’s become a staple of parades and school concerts. The National Endowment for the Humanities lists it as one of America’s most enduring folk songs. Its playful lyrics and catchy melody have helped it survive for generations, and it’s even the official state anthem of Connecticut. “Yankee Doodle” is a song that instantly brings to mind images of colonial America and patriotic pride.
19. “Empire State of Mind” by Jay-Z and Alicia Keys
Though it’s a love letter to New York City, “Empire State of Mind” has become a broader anthem for American ambition and dreams. Released in 2009, it spent five weeks at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and is still played at major sporting events and New Year’s Eve celebrations. According to Spotify, it’s streamed over 700 million times and was the most played song at Times Square’s 2023 New Year’s countdown. The song’s soaring chorus and optimistic lyrics have made it a symbol of hope and possibility—not just for New Yorkers, but for anyone chasing big dreams.
20. “America” by Simon & Garfunkel
Released in 1968, “America” captures the longing and searching spirit of the country during a time of upheaval. It’s been covered by David Bowie, Yes, and First Aid Kit, and was used in Bernie Sanders’ 2016 presidential campaign ads, leading to a 200% spike in digital sales according to Nielsen. The song’s gentle melody and poetic lyrics have made it a favorite for road trips and graduation ceremonies. It’s a reminder that finding “America” is as much about the journey as the destination.
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Besides founding Festivaltopia, Luca is the co founder of trib, an art and fashion collectiv you find on several regional events and online. Also he is part of the management board at HORiZONTE, a group travel provider in Germany.
