About the Song

Lee Greenwood wrote his iconic song “God Bless the USA” in 1983, one night in the back of his tour bus. While often called a “secondary national anthem,” the song’s creation stemmed from Greenwood’s longstanding desire to write something meaningful and unifying for America. In a 2013 interview, he shared the story behind its inspiration as well as his motivations, which were shaped by years of observation and reflection.

Greenwood spent nearly 19 years living in Las Vegas, often performing at the same hotel as Elvis Presley. Observing the impact of Presley’s rendition of “An American Trilogy” sparked Greenwood’s desire to create a song that could have a similar unifying effect. He had previously written a song titled “America,” a reflection on the divisive Vietnam War, but he felt it didn’t convey the positivity he wanted. After several years of touring the U.S., Greenwood had a newfound perspective on the shared values and unity among Americans despite their regional and cultural differences. This experience inspired him to create “God Bless the USA,”

When it was released, “God Bless the USA” won the CMA Song of the Year award in 1985. The song returned to prominence during key moments in American history, such as the Gulf War and after September 11, 2001. As Greenwood explained, “‘USA’ is the song I always felt the need to write. I wanted something that would unite Americans from coast to coast, instill pride, and honor the sacrifices made for our freedoms. It represents my family, my community, and those who have paid the price for our liberty.”

Lyrics

If tomorrow all the things were gone
I worked for all my life
And I had to start again
With just my children and my wife
I thank my lucky stars
To be living here today
‘Cause the flag still stands for freedom
And they can’t take that away
And I’m proud to be an American
Where at least I know I’m free
And I won’t forget the men who died
Who gave that right to me
And I’d gladly stand up next to you
And defend Her still today
‘Cause there ain’t no doubt
I love this land
God Bless the U.S.A.
From the lakes of Minnesota
To the hills of Tennessee
Across the plains of Texas
From sea to shining sea
From Detroit down to Houston
And New York to L.A.
Where’s pride in every American heart
And it’s time we stand and say
That I’m proud to be an American
Where at least I know I’m free
And I won’t forget the men who died
Who gave that right to me
And I’d gladly stand up next to you
And defend Her still today
‘Cause there ain’t no doubt
I love this land
God Bless the U.S.A.
And I’m proud to be an American
Where at least I know I’m free
And I won’t forget the men who died
Who gave that right to me
And I’d gladly stand up next to you
And defend Her still today
‘Cause there ain’t no doubt
I love this land
God Bless the U.S.A.

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