Even that, in itself, is a deeply American value that we can all celebrate this July 4th. No matter your stance on the current state of things, there’s no shame in being proud of where you come from while simultaneously seeking change. Political divides, prejudice and poverty are unfortunately ever-present in the land of the free and the home of the brave, but hey, at least we’re free to talk – or sing – about what we need to do to fix it.

Just as there’s a lot to be said in the country’s favor – the diverse cities, beautiful scenery, advancements in technology, culture and of course, music – there’s also a lot to be improved upon, as several of these musicians point out. Since the country’s inception in 1776, artists have been tackling the complexities of living life under the stars and stripes with songs that both trumpet and deconstruct the concept of the American dream. and not know about schoolhouse classics like “The Star-Spangled Banner” and “This Land Is Your Land,” but those famous odes aren’t the only way to give a musical shout-out to America. It is impossible to live in any of the 50 states in the U.S.A.

Song lyrics to the star spangled banner