About the song
“Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue (The Angry American)” is a poignant and powerful song by country music star Toby Keith. Released in 2002, this track quickly resonated with listeners, capturing the raw emotions and patriotic fervor that swept across America in the wake of the September 11 attacks. Toby Keith, known for his distinctive baritone voice and straightforward style, wrote this song as a tribute to his father, a veteran, and as a response to the tragic events of that fateful day.
The song is part of Toby Keith’s album *Unleashed*, which debuted in the summer of 2002. “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue” stands out not only for its heartfelt lyrics but also for its unapologetic stance on American pride and resilience. The track quickly ascended the charts, peaking at number 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, solidifying its place as an anthem of American patriotism.
Toby Keith’s delivery of the song is both stirring and defiant, embodying the spirit of a nation determined to stand strong in the face of adversity. The song’s chorus, with lines like “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,” captures the intense emotions and resolve felt by many Americans at the time.
“Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue” was not without controversy; its direct and sometimes confrontational lyrics sparked debate, but this did not deter its success. Instead, it underscored the song’s role in expressing a collective sentiment of anger and unity.
In addition to its chart-topping performance, the song has been a staple in Toby Keith’s live performances, often eliciting strong reactions from audiences. Its impact extends beyond commercial success, serving as a reminder of the resilience and patriotism that define the American spirit.
Whether you’re a long-time fan of Toby Keith or someone who appreciates music that speaks to pivotal moments in history, “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue (The Angry American)” remains a significant and enduring piece of the American musical landscape.
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