About the song
“Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue (The Angry American)” is a powerful and memorable song by Toby Keith, released on May 2002 as the lead single from his album *Unleashed*. This song was crafted in the wake of profound personal and national events. Inspired by the death of Keith’s father in March 2001 and the September 11 attacks, the song captures Keith’s deep sense of patriotism and anger.
Initially, Keith was hesitant to record the song, choosing instead to perform it live at his concerts for military personnel. The enthusiastic reception from these audiences led to encouragement from high-ranking officials, including Marine Corps Commandant James L. Jones, who urged Keith to record the song to boost troop morale. Jones emphasized Keith’s role in uplifting the spirit of the nation during such challenging times.
In an interview with CBS in November 2003, Keith shared his perspective on the song. He explained that the song was a raw and heartfelt response to the attacks and the loss he felt, driven by his father’s veteran background and the national trauma. Keith acknowledged that the song stirred strong emotions, from tears and goosebumps to cheers and raised fists.
The song did face some controversy. ABC invited Keith to perform on a patriotic special in 2002 but requested that he either soften the song’s lyrics or choose another song. Keith declined both suggestions, leading to a public dispute with ABC and notable media coverage. Additionally, Keith had a high-profile feud with the Dixie Chicks, particularly with lead singer Natalie Maines, who criticized the song. Keith’s public response included playful jabs and controversial imagery, but he eventually chose to move on from the feud.
“Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue (The Angry American)” debuted at number 41 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and reached number one by July 2002. It also gained significant crossover success, peaking at number 25 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song has been certified four-times Platinum by the RIAA, highlighting its substantial impact and enduring popularity. Following Toby Keith’s death on February 5, 2024, the song re-entered the Hot Country Songs chart, demonstrating its lasting resonance with audiences.
Overall, the song stands as a testament to Keith’s ability to channel personal and national emotion into music that resonates deeply with listeners.
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