What Inspired Lee Greenwood's 'God Bless the USA'?
Country singer Lee Greenwood reveals the inspiration for one of the most patriotic songs ever written.
Patriotic songs inspire intense feelings of pride, so it should come as no suprise that the best patriotic songs are also born from those same emotions.
"It's a passion that I had, as a child, to write something that would unite the country," says Lee Greenwood, who penned "God Bless the USA" on his tour bus back in the '80s. "It's that simple."
During his visit to FNM's studios, the country legend also explained why he thinks "God Bless the USA" strikes such a chord with Americans everywhere.
"Throughout our history, we've had songs that have been a battle cry, that have given us courage and strength," he says, adding that these songs are especially meaningful during times of war or turmoil. "Each time, people reach out for something that will unite them, and make them feel proud as Americans. And every time they look for it, they find 'God Bless the USA.' So I sing it as much as a I can across America, and I'm proud that I wrote it."
Watch the rest of our exclusive interview with Greenwood (above) for more insight into "God Bless the USA," then or take a look below to find out why he's still proud to be an American.
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