The Church of Chives: Musical Trip Though America

With the 4th of July approaching, I got to thinking of America. I love America. I still get a little emotional every time I hear the national anthem*, still feel pride when I look upon our flag or see a group of soliders walking through an airport. It's just how I am.

*Unless sung by Carl Lewis, Roseanne or Christina Aguilera.

I also am a complete nerd, so I started thinking of different songs that sounded like America to me. Then I started putting them in chronological order. Then my little project morphed into telling the entire story of America through song.

So here's a little 4th of July playlist that I, with a little help from my Twitter friends, concocted. Not every single song is literally about what period of time or event it's representing (The Wild West, the rise of Nazi Germany), yet some are (the fall of the Confederate army, WWI). Also, not every big event that helped define this country is represented.

This isn't supposed to encompass every piece of important American history that has a song written about it. Nor did I just want ragtime music for the 1920's, new wave in the 80's, etc. It is strictly rock and roll, and for two reasons: it's what I know and I wanted one constant that could tell the story of our home.

You'll see a few artsts pop up more than twice. Hey, some bands just sung about this type of stuff more than others. This isn't a serious or de facto list. This is my list. Add or subtract to it what you will.

This is just a fun idea I had. Enjoy.

Sex Pistols: Anarchy in the UK-