#1: Lee Greenwood: God Bless the USA
Lee Greenwood is an American country music artist who has been performing in a variety of venues since the late 1970's. But one of his top acoustic guitar songs was "God Bless the USA" which was released on his 1984 album 'You've Got a Good Love Comin'. While the song has always been well-loved in the country music circles, the 2001 terrorist attacks catapulted the song back into popularity as it was adopted not only by those who wanted to honor those lost in the world trade center and Pentagon, but also those troops lost in the Gulf Wars. The song is easy to play, but also deeply touching with words that get right to the heart of what it means to be an American.
#2: Samuel A. Ward: America the Beautiful
"America the Beautiful" is a beautiful song composed by Samuel A. Ward (lyrics by Katharine Lee Bates) and first published in The Congregationalist in 1895. Since its introduction it has touched the hearts of millions, and remains a very stirring piece when performed in the right setting. A simple yet beautiful piece, "America the Beautiful" is always an appropriate selection for Independence Day.
#3: Trace Adkins: Arlington
Trace Adkins is an American Country Music artist who made his debut in 1996 with the album 'Dreaming Out Loud'. On this album was a song that agitated many individuals and created a great deal of controversy. "Arlington" is a simple melody that tells the story of a modern-day soldier who is brought home and buried in Arlington National Cemetery alongside his grandfather who died in World War II. Sad and Melancholy, this piece is not to be taken lightly, but at the same time gives a good perspective of the true cost of Freedom.
#4: Peter, Paul & Mary: Where Have all the Flowers Gone
The American Folk Group, Peter, Paul and Mary has been associated with anti-war and protest songs since its debut in the 1960's. "Where Have All The Flowers Gone?" is a sweet and simple melody of the waste of war and all of those who pay the price in the end. Easy to play, and easy to sing, this song is a favorite with children and adults alike and will be welcomed wherever it is played.
#5: Woody Guthrie: This Land Is Your Land
This song was written by Woody Guthrie, the American folk musician and songwriter. In January 2009, Pete Seeger along with his grandson Tao Rodriguez-Seeger teamed-up with Bruce Springsteen to perform this song for the Obama Inauguration celebration; truly a performance of a lifetime.
So whether you are planning on celebrating Independence Day at a beach or a BBQ, don't forget your music and guitar. With these top acoustic guitar songs in your repertoire you could very well end up generating some fireworks of your own!