Matt VonSchleusingen ‘13
EE Staff Writer
Singers often acknowledge freedom in America through songs and tunes. While the harmonies may be catchy, the lyrics and themes signify a clear message of patriotism and symbolically unite the country. The harsh, troubling scenes of war are reversed by means of harmonies and tunes that represent softer, simpler messages. Through music, America is able to show respect for the soldiers who have fought for America’s freedom.
“The Starred Spangled Banner” and “America the Beautiful” are two of the more famous and recognizable melodies, but these and many more show how grateful citizens are for the freedom they have thanks to the veterans’ bold and heroic deeds.
There are an abundance of songs about Veterans Day in the United States. The Zac Brown Band, famous for their country pop and their own song writing, created a song titled “Free”, which recognized how living in America is all about freedom. This song, created in 2010, is frequently played on Veterans day. The song was also an incredible hit on iTunes. The chorus repeats, “Just as free, free as we’ll ever be, just as free, free as we’ll ever be.”
Whitney Houston was an inspirational and patriotic singer and her version of “The Star Spangled Banner” was one of her greatest hits. Whitney Houston originally sang the National Anthem at the Super bowl in 1991, during the time of the Persian Gulf War. She later recorded the song and proceeds from sales helped soldiers and families of military in the Gulf War.
In addition, Bob Marley also wrote a song, “No More Troubles,” which highlights the importance of freedom and gratitude of all those who fight for us. Bob Marley’s lyrics read, “No more troubles, no more troubles, in happiness and freedom, no more troubles, no more troubles, so we could be peaceful, and one.” All of these artists were well liked by the public, having a big influence on the movement of increasing support to our Veterans.
Through music, the cold, hard truth of war and death are diluted. Music brings people together, highlights the positives, while respecting the soldiers and military who have fought to protect our freedom.
So next time you catch yourself listening to a song about war, understand what impact the songs have in American history and respect the veterans, because they are the reason United States citizens are able to do what they do, in happiness and freedom.