具体描述
Throughout our nation's history, patriotic songs have lifted our spirits during hard times and brought us closer to our heritage and to each other. Behind these "songs sung red, white, and blue" are unforgettable stories that will enrich your appreciation of their unique power. It's hard to imagine a single American who hasn't been touched deeply at one time or another by the songs in these pages. From the soaring chorus of "God Bless America" to the quiet poetry of "America the Beautiful," historian Ace Collins takes you inside the creation of thirty-two classic songs spanning two centuries. Military anthems like "The Marine's Hymn" and "Anchors Aweigh" share pages with other songs of war, such as the War of 1812's "The Star-Spangled Banner" and the Civil War's "Battle Hymn of the Republic." Popular tunes dating back to the earliest days of our nation, such as "Yankee Doodle," are included alongside contemporary hits like "God Bless the U.S.A." Other favorites like "This Land Is Your Land" and "This Is My Country" reflect on our nation in times of peace. You'll meet a surprising and diverse cast of behind-the-scenes characters, which includes both everydayAmericans -- teachers, preachers, and soldiers -- as well as celebrated songwriters like Irving Berlin and George M. Cohan. Here are songs that are as close to our hearts as any ever written -- songs that form a rousing soundtrack to America's story.
Songs Sung Red, White, and Blue: A Journey Through American Musical Identity This book is not about the specific songs titled "Red, White, and Blue." Instead, it delves into the broader concept of American musical identity, exploring how music has been used to define, celebrate, and sometimes challenge what it means to be American across different eras and communities. A Tapestry of Sound and Sentiment: "Songs Sung Red, White, and Blue" traces the evolution of American music not as a singular entity, but as a dynamic and often contradictory tapestry woven from diverse threads. The narrative begins by examining the foundational influences on American sound – from the folk melodies of immigrant populations, the spirituals born from the crucible of slavery, to the martial anthems that fueled the nation's early expansion. We'll uncover how these early sonic landscapes, often carrying echoes of distant homelands, began to coalesce into uniquely American expressions. The book then moves through pivotal moments in American history, illustrating how music served as a soundtrack and a catalyst for change. We'll explore the rise of popular music in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, analyzing how genres like ragtime, blues, and jazz not only entertained but also reflected the social and cultural upheavals of the time, including urbanization, industrialization, and the ongoing struggle for civil rights. The role of music in wartime – from the patriotic fervor of World War I to the protest songs of Vietnam – will be meticulously documented, showcasing its power to unite, to question, and to memorialize. Beyond the Obvious Anthems: Crucially, "Songs Sung Red, White, and Blue" aims to move beyond the commonly recognized patriotic anthems. While acknowledging their significance, the book champions the voices and melodies that have often been overlooked in mainstream narratives. This includes the powerful songs of labor movements, the resilience and beauty of music from Indigenous communities, the vibrant traditions of regional folk music, and the groundbreaking innovations of genres that have continually reshaped the American sonic landscape. We will investigate how these seemingly disparate musical forms contribute to a richer, more nuanced understanding of American identity, revealing that "red, white, and blue" can be expressed through a multitude of melodies and rhythms. Themes and Musical Expressions: The book is structured around several key themes that resonate throughout American musical history: The Search for Unity and Belonging: How have songs attempted to forge a sense of shared identity in a nation composed of diverse peoples? We will examine how music has been used to create common ground, foster a sense of national pride, and express aspirations for a united future, while also acknowledging the exclusions and divisions that have often accompanied these efforts. The Voice of Protest and Resistance: From abolitionist hymns to civil rights anthems, music has consistently been a powerful tool for challenging injustice and advocating for social change. This section will highlight the courageous artists and movements that have used their voices and melodies to speak truth to power and demand a more equitable America. The Celebration of Everyday Life and Local Identity: Beyond grand pronouncements, American music has always found its roots in the experiences of ordinary people, in regional traditions, and in the celebrations of community life. We will explore the rich tapestry of folk music, country tunes, and urban sounds that capture the spirit and character of different locales and lifestyles. The Evolution of Innovation and Influence: American music has been a crucible of innovation, constantly absorbing influences and forging new paths. This segment will trace the cross-pollination of genres, the impact of new technologies, and the ways in which American musical styles have captivated audiences and inspired artists worldwide, solidifying its global cultural footprint. The Ambiguity and Contestation of "American-ness": The very definition of what constitutes "American" music has always been subject to debate and reinterpretation. This book will explore instances where music has been used to both affirm and question national identity, revealing the complexities and contradictions inherent in the American experience. A Scholarly yet Accessible Approach: "Songs Sung Red, White, and Blue" offers a comprehensive and engaging exploration of American musical history. Drawing on rigorous scholarship, it presents a vivid account of the artists, movements, and societal forces that have shaped the nation's soundtrack. The writing is accessible to a broad audience, avoiding overly technical jargon while maintaining intellectual depth. Through compelling anecdotes, insightful analysis, and a deep appreciation for the power of music, this book invites readers to discover the multifaceted and ever-evolving symphony of American identity. It is a journey through the melodies that have echoed in town squares, concert halls, protest marches, and living rooms, collectively telling the story of America through its songs.
