Take the tired old Springsteen numbers off rotation, because here’s our playlist of less obvious Fourth of July jams.
“One Nation Under a Groove” — Funkadelic
The language of funk unites us all, and George Clinton speaks that gospel best.
“Fourth of July” — X
The details of small-town life and one hell of a catchy chorus make this an essential holiday weekend song.
“Made in America” — Jay-Z and Kanye West
Jay and Ye salute black American icons in this swaggering hip-hop track.
“We Didn’t Start the Fire” — Billy Joel
Joel refers to it as a “novelty” song, but hearing American history sung at you with such speed and force is still a thrill.
Chuck BerryAP“Independence Day” — Martina McBride
It’s a classic July Fourth anthem, but listen closely and you’ll hear how McBride is alluding to independence from toxic and violent relationships.
“Back in the USA” — Chuck Berry
He left us earlier this year, but Berry’s vivid and vibrant depiction of ’50s Americana lives on.
“Everyday People” — Sly and the Family Stone
Flower power and R&B come together in Sly’s glorious homage to cross-cultural unity.
“Rhythm Nation” — Janet Jackson
“It’s time to give a damn, let’s work together.” Sing it, Janet!
“National Anthem” — Lana Del Rey
Give the holiday a touch of noir with Del Rey’s twisted homage to JFK and Marilyn Monroe.
“This Land Is Your Land” — Woody Guthrie
It was given a new lease on life after this year’s Super Bowl halftime show, but this a good time to remember that “This Land Is Your Land” is not a Lady Gaga original.
