Country music legend Lee Greenwood recently opened up about the lasting impact of his patriotic anthem “God Bless the USA”, which has remained a symbol of American pride for over four decades.
Now 82, Greenwood released the iconic song in 1984. Since then, it has surged in popularity during pivotal moments of both unity and crisis—becoming a staple at rallies, national events, and even naturalization ceremonies.
In an interview with Fox News Digital, Greenwood explained why he believes the song continues to resonate with new generations.
“I can’t tell you how many parents send me videos of their 6- or 7-year-olds waving a little flag and singing, ‘Proud to be an American’ in their tiny voices,” Greenwood said. “That’s where patriotism starts.”
The country singer credited the song’s staying power to its universal message of national pride.
“Some people today may attack the flag or even refuse to sing the national anthem,” he continued. “But you can’t really disrespect ‘God Bless the USA’—it’s about love of country, about pride. That’s why it’s lasted.”
From Modest Beginnings to National Symbol
Greenwood began his music career in 1962 and signed with MCA Records in 1981. He wrote “God Bless the USA” in 1983 while touring, never imagining it would become his defining song.
“It was just a song I wrote one night on the bus. I didn’t even think we’d release it as a single,” he said.
The song was included on his 1984 album You’ve Got a Good Love Comin’, and initially charted modestly—peaking at No. 7 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart. But it gained momentum when it was played at the 1984 Republican National Convention in front of President Ronald Reagan and First Lady Nancy Reagan. Greenwood went on to perform it at Reagan’s campaign stops and the 1988 RNC.
Since then, Greenwood has performed the anthem at several presidential inaugurations, including for George H.W. Bush in 1989 and both inaugurations of Donald Trump. Most recently, he sang it at Trump’s second swearing-in ceremony and again during a military parade in Washington on June 14, 2025, ahead of America’s upcoming 250th birthday.
A Song for Times of Triumph and Tragedy
Over the years, “God Bless the USA” has reemerged during times of national difficulty—from the Gulf War to the aftermath of 9/11. The song was certified platinum by the RIAA in 2015.
President Trump frequently used the song at campaign rallies and major events, including the emotional moment he took the stage at the 2024 Republican National Convention after surviving an assassination attempt.
“It means a lot to know the song brings comfort and unity,” Greenwood said. “When people hear it, they feel connected to this country.”
A Personal Journey Rooted in Patriotism
Greenwood recalled that his love of country began early—he was a drum major in high school and took pride in leading the marching band.
“That’s where it started for me. Respect for the flag, understanding sacrifice, and pride in being an American.”
He emphasized that regardless of ethnic or cultural background, the song speaks to the unifying idea of being part of one nation.
“People say, ‘I’m Italian American’ or ‘I’m African American’—but we’re all Americans,” Greenwood said. “That’s what makes this country special.”
Celebrating America’s 250th Anniversary
As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary in 2026, Greenwood reflected on the country’s endurance through war, division, and change.
“It’s amazing we’ve lasted this long through so much conflict—civil war, world wars, Vietnam, now drone warfare,” he said. “And yet here we are, still standing.”
“Thank God for our Constitution. Without it, I don’t think we would’ve made it.”
Greenwood’s anthem has become more than a country song—it’s a piece of American history.
“When new citizens hear ‘God Bless the USA’ at naturalization ceremonies, they get it,” Greenwood said. “They know what it means to be an American. And that’s what it means to me, too.”
