About the ssong
“Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue (The Angry American)” is a powerful anthem by Toby Keith, an influential figure in the country music scene. Released in 2002 as part of his album “Unleashed,” this song quickly resonated with many Americans, especially in the wake of the September 11 attacks. Toby Keith, known for his distinctive voice and patriotic themes, wrote this song in response to the tragic events, channeling the collective emotions of anger, pride, and patriotism that many felt during that time.
Toby Keith penned “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue” as a tribute to his father, a veteran, and to the spirit of the American people. The song’s raw and honest lyrics capture the nation’s resilience and determination to stand united against adversity. Keith’s father had passed away earlier that year, and the combination of personal loss and national tragedy fueled the emotional depth of the song.
Upon its release, “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue” quickly climbed the charts, reaching the 1st spot on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. The song also crossed over to the mainstream Billboard Hot 100, peaking at number 25. Its success was bolstered by Toby Keith’s passionate performances and the song’s inclusion in various patriotic events and media coverage.
“Unleashed,” the album featuring this iconic track, further solidified Toby Keith’s status as a leading country artist. The album itself was a commercial hit, debuting at number one on the Billboard 200 and the Top Country Albums chart.
Over the years, “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue” has become an enduring symbol of American patriotism. Its straightforward, unapologetic message continues to resonate with audiences, making it a staple in Toby Keith’s live performances and a timeless piece of American musical history.
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