Here, in my opinion, is some of the best music to listen to on Independence Day:
- America-Simon & Garfunkel (This tune about looking for America doesn't get much radio airplay these days, so it was refreshing to hear KDHX play it on July 4 one year.)
- America The Beautiful-Ray Charles (Charles puts his unique stamp on arguably the most beautiful of American anthems.)
- America The Beautiful-Nathan East (Jazz bassist East and the accompanying choir do America proud with this dignified rendition.)
- America The Beautiful-Pete Seeger
(A succinct guitar and harmonica version.)
- American Tune-Paul Simon (or Simon & Garfunkel from the concert in Central Park) (Considering how thoughtful and moving these lyrics are, it's puzzling that this wasn't a bigger hit. Both versions warrant repeated listening, not only on July 4.)
- But, Mr. Adams-"1776" movie soundtrack ("1776" is a captivating movie and stage production about the struggles that led up to the Declaration Of Independence being adopted. You know that Thomas Jefferson will write the Declaration, but hearing the supposed account of how he becomes the author is amusing.)
- God Bless America-Beegie Adair (A stirring piano rendition that takes just enough liberties without overdoing them.)
- National Anthem-LeAnn Rimes (A soaring, well-sung, respectful rendition.)
- William Schuman: New England Triptych, "Chester" (St. Louis Symphony Orchestra/Leonard Slatkin, conductor) (The orchestra conveys the brassy, powerful patriotic themes of this movement. The orchestra's rendition of John Philip Sousa's "The Stars And Stripes Forever" is also recommended.)
- Shenandoah-Ferrante & Teicher (Two pianos, a flute, and strings pull off a lyrical, moving instrumental.)
- Song For America-Kansas (Ten minutes of orchestral rock; a respectful, powerfully played salute to America's beauty.)
- This Land Is Your Land-Peter, Paul & Mary (Few ensembles can match Peter, Paul & Mary's sincerity here.)
