American Music Classics to Amp Up Your Summer Fun

From patriotic anthems to classic rock ballads, music has played an integral role in the making of America

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Music has played a profound and multifaceted role in American history, reflecting the nation's cultural, social, political, and economic evolution. From its African roots and folk traditions that gave birth to the popular music of the 20th century, American music is as diverse as the people that inhabit it. 

This summer, as you roll the windows down and soak in the warm breeze, don’t forget to blast some of these classic American songs—all of which have stood the test of time and are loved across generations. These tracks represent various genres, from jazz to folk to rock, showcasing the eclectic nature of our country’s musical talent and tastes. Bonus: We’ve included a link to our Palomino County “American Music Classics” playlist at the end.

NO. 1: "Born in the U.S.A." – Bruce Springsteen

A rock classic that blends American patriotism with commentary on the challenges faced by working-class Americans.

No. 2: "Take Me Out to the Ball Game" – Jack Norworth and Albert Von Tilzer

A timeless song that has become synonymous with America's national pastime, baseball.

No. 3: "What a Wonderful World" – Louis Armstrong

A jazz classic that captures the beauty of life in the most hopeful and optimistic way, sung by one of the most iconic figures in American music.

No. 4: "America the Beautiful" – Katharine Lee Bates AND Samuel A. Ward

A patriotic anthem that celebrates the beauty and spirit of America, often performed at national sporting events, commemoration ceremonies, and holidays.

NO. 5: "This Land Is Your Land" – Woody Guthrie

A folk anthem that captures the essence of the American landscape and people, written by one of the country’s most iconic songwriters.

NO. 6: "Respect" – Aretha Franklin

A soul anthem about self-respect and empowerment, "Respect" became one of Aretha Franklin’s most influential hits.

NO. 7: "Sweet Home Alabama" – Lynyrd Skynyrd

A rock classic that blends Southern pride with a catchy, memorable riff, becoming a staple of American rock music.

NO. 8: "The Star-Spangled Banner" – Francis Scott Key

The national anthem of the United States, representing the country's values of freedom and resilience.

NO. 9: "Take It Easy" – Eagles

A laid-back classic rock song that epitomizes the carefree spirit of the American West. If you grew up in the 70s and 80s, this will get you every time.

NO. 10: "Proud Mary" – Creedence Clearwater Revival

A roots rock song that has become a classic, known for its catchy chorus and association with Americana storytelling.

NO. 11: "I Will Survive" – Gloria Gaynor

An empowering disco anthem that has endured as a symbol of strength and resilience.

NO. 12: "Jolene" – Dolly Parton

A country classic that tells the story of a woman pleading with another to not take away her man. Dolly's storytelling and heartfelt performance have made it a timeless hit.

NO. 13: "Hotel California" – Eagles

A rock epic that has fascinated listeners with its mysterious lyrics and beautiful guitar work.

NO. 14:  "Johnny B. Goode" – Chuck Berry

A rock ‘n’ roll anthem that became synonymous with the genre’s birth, with Chuck Berry’s iconic guitar riffs.

NO. 15: "The Weight" – The Band

A deeply American song that blends folk rock and Americana, known for its storytelling and soulful sound.

NO. 16: "God Bless America" – Irving Berlin

Another patriotic song that has become a staple in American culture, symbolizing national pride.

NO. 17: "Dancing in the Street" – Martha and the Vandellas

A classic Motown song that promotes unity and joy, representing the heart of the American music scene during the 1960s.

NO. 18: "Blowin’ in the Wind" – Bob Dylan

A folk protest song from the 1960s that became an anthem for social change, written by one of America’s most influential songwriters.

NO. 19: "My Girl" – The Temptations

A soulful and smooth love song that has become one of the most iconic tracks of the Motown era.

NO. 20: "Bohemian Rhapsody" – Queen (while a British band, it became a massive hit in the U.S.)

A rock ballad that defies genre conventions, and while Queen is a British band, "Bohemian Rhapsody" became one of the most beloved songs in American music history.

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Ready to jam? Check out our "PC Summer American Classics" playlist on Spotify.