About the song
“Toby Keith – Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue” stands as one of the defining anthems of the early 2000s, encapsulating a raw, unabashed sense of patriotism that resonated deeply with a nation undergoing intense global challenges. Released in 2002, this song marked a pivotal moment in both Toby Keith’s career and American musical history, as it gave voice to a widespread surge of national pride that followed the tragic events of September 11, 2001.
At its core, “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue” is an emotionally charged declaration of American strength, resilience, and resolve. Written by Keith himself, the song was born from his reaction to the attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon. It captures the profound sense of unity and the collective desire for justice, wrapping these sentiments in a distinctly country music framework, full of bold imagery and unwavering conviction.
The lyrics are unapologetically direct, blending the storytelling tradition of country music with a potent sense of defiance. Keith sings of retribution and of standing firm against those who threaten the nation’s freedoms, with lines like “We’ll put a boot in your ass, it’s the American way,” resonating strongly with listeners who felt both anger and pride. The song’s straightforward, no-nonsense message served as a call to action for a nation in mourning, offering a form of catharsis for those who were searching for ways to cope with the aftermath of tragedy.
Musically, the track blends a signature country sound with elements of rock, creating a driving, anthem-like feel that further amplifies its message. The raucous instrumentation complements the fiery lyrics, ensuring that “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue” is as much a rallying cry as it is a musical statement. Its success was immediate, charting at the top of the country charts and earning accolades for its stirring portrayal of patriotism at a time when such expressions were both needed and powerful.
In the years since its release, the song has remained a staple of American musical identity, often played at sporting events and patriotic gatherings, and continues to spark conversations about the role of music in times of national crisis. Toby Keith’s song stands not only as a testament to his artistry but also as a powerful reminder of the ways in which music can reflect and shape the emotional landscape of a nation.
Video
Lyrics
American girls and American guys
We’ll always stand up and salute
We’ll always recognize
When we see Old Glory flying
There’s a lot of men dead
So we can sleep in peace at night when we lay down our head
My daddy served in the army
Where he lost his right eye but he flew a flag out in our yard
‘Til the day that he died
He wanted my mother, my brother, my sister and me
To grow up and live happy
In the land of the free
Now this nation that I love has fallen under attack
A mighty sucker punch came flyin’ in from somewhere in the back
Soon as we could see clearly
Through our big black eye
Man, we lit up your world
Like the fourth of July
Hey Uncle Sam, put your name at the top of his list
And the Statue of Liberty started shakin’ her fist
And the eagle will fly man, it’s gonna be hell
When you hear mother freedom start ringin’ her bell
And it feels like the whole wide world is raining down on you
Oh, brought to you courtesy of the red white and blue
Oh, and justice will be served and the battle will rage
This big dog will fight when you rattle his cage
And you’ll be sorry that you messed with
The U.S. of A.
‘Cause we’ll put a boot in your ass
It’s the American way
Hey Uncle Sam, put your name at the top of his list
And the Statue of Liberty started shakin’ her fist
And the eagle will fly it’s gonna be hell
When you hear mother freedom start ringin’ her bell
And it’ll feel like the whole wide world is raining down on you
Oh, brought to you courtesy of the red white and blue
Oh-oh, of the red, white and blue
Oh-oh, of my red, white and blue
