From Tragedy to Triumph: The Story of ‘Courtesy of the Red, White And Blue’ by Toby Keith

About The Song

“Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue (The Angry American)” is a patriotic country song by American singer Toby Keith. Released in 2002, the song became a significant anthem post-9/11 and is known for its strong patriotic sentiment and defiant tone.

Background and Release

  • Artist: Toby Keith
  • Album: Unleashed
  • Release Date: May 27, 2002
  • Label: DreamWorks Records

Songwriters and Production

  • Written by: Toby Keith
  • Produced by: James Stroud, Toby Keith

Musical Style and Themes

“Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue (The Angry American)” is an up-tempo country rock song with powerful, gritty guitar riffs and an assertive beat. The lyrics express fierce patriotism and resolve in the aftermath of the September 11 attacks, conveying themes of American pride, resilience, and retribution. The song specifically addresses the nation’s response to terrorism, with lines emphasizing strength and unity.

Chart Performance

The song achieved notable success on various music charts:
  • Billboard Hot Country Songs: Reached number one
  • Billboard Hot 100: Peaked at number 25

Impact and Legacy

“Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue (The Angry American)” quickly became one of Toby Keith’s most impactful songs, resonating deeply with listeners during a time of national mourning and recovery. The song’s raw emotion and patriotic fervor made it a powerful and controversial statement that connected with many Americans while drawing criticism from others who felt it was too aggressive.
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Music Video

The music video for “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue,” directed by Michael Salomon, features Toby Keith performing the song with interspersed footage of American flags, military personnel, and images reflecting American pride and unity. The visuals emphasize the song’s patriotic themes and the strong emotions it aims to evoke.

Awards and Recognition

The song received widespread recognition and was particularly popular among military personnel and patriotic audiences. While it sparked debate, it also solidified Toby Keith’s reputation as a bold and outspoken artist.

Legacy

“Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue (The Angry American)” remains one of Toby Keith’s most memorable and significant songs. It is often performed at his concerts, especially during events and holidays that honor the military and American patriotism. The song’s direct and unflinching message continues to resonate, making it a lasting symbol of American resolve and pride in the country music genre.

Video

Lyrics

🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤
American girls and American guysWe’ll always stand up and saluteWe’ll always recognizeWhen we see Old Glory flyingThere’s a lot of men deadSo we can sleep in peace at night when we lay down our head
My daddy served in the armyWhere he lost his right eye but he flew a flag out in our yard‘Til the day that he diedHe wanted my mother, my brother, my sister and meTo grow up and live happyIn the land of the free
Now this nation that I love has fallen under attackA mighty sucker punch came flyin’ in from somewhere in the backSoon as we could see clearlyThrough our big black eyeMan, we lit up your worldLike the fourth of July
Hey Uncle Sam, put your name at the top of his listAnd the Statue of Liberty started shakin’ her fistAnd the eagle will fly man, it’s gonna be hellWhen you hear mother freedom start ringin’ her bellAnd it feels like the whole wide world is raining down on youOh, brought to you courtesy of the red white and blue
Oh, and justice will be served and the battle will rageThis big dog will fight when you rattle his cageAnd you’ll be sorry that you messed withThe U.S. of A.‘Cause we’ll put a boot in your assIt’s the American way
Hey Uncle Sam, put your name at the top of his listAnd the Statue of Liberty started shakin’ her fistAnd the eagle will fly it’s gonna be hellWhen you hear mother freedom start ringin’ her bellAnd it’ll feel like the whole wide world is raining down on youOh, brought to you courtesy of the red white and blue
Oh-oh, of the red, white and blueOh-oh, of my red, white and blue

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