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2024-11-06 16:41:00
The 82-year-old singer’s patriotic music has made him a star among Republicans since the 1980s. Singer of presidential campaigns, including that of George Bush senior, now celebrates Donald Trump.
Lee Greenwood loves a certain idea of America, this country where the country singer feels free and happy, under the lucky stars of his flag. He celebrates in his songs this patriotic love for an image of Epinal. To the point that the most famous of them, God bless the United States, has become the soundtrack of the Republican Party for several decades. This song idealizes a country where life is beautiful, “from the lakes of Minnesota/to the hills of Tennessee”.
Donald Trump, who won the US presidential election this Wednesday, November 6, broadcast every meeting of his election campaign on air God bless the United States. The country singer encouraged his fans on Tuesday to vote for the Republican candidate. A few hours after the results were announced, he was thrilled ON in all caps, like its sample: “GOD BLESS AMERICA”.
Christian devotion
Born in 1942 in California, Lee Greenwood joined the church choir at age 7. At just 20 years old he founded his first group, The Apollos, and toured the casinos of Las Vegas. After signing with his first label, records and a few jobs in the food industry, his career really took off. He signed to the prestigious MCA label in the early 1980s, and subsequently released several successful albums extolling his conservative values.
A fervent republican, he praised America and sang bitter elegies on marriage. (Ring on her finger, time in her hands, turns me upside down) and testifies to his Christian devotion in songs with apocalyptic melodies (The Battle Hymn of the Republic).
With a “charitable” spirit, Lee Greenwood decides to publish his own bible in 2021, to pay homage to the victims of the attacks of September 11, 2001. The work, which features the starry banner on the cover, contains a handwritten extract of his song God bless the United States, enough to help you hum the hymn between two prayers. Sold for 60 dollars, it is the only Bible approved by Donald Trump, assures the site that markets it. In honor of the failed attack against the former Republican candidate, a special edition was even created which is simply titled: “The day God intervened.” For $1,000 you can also get a Bible signed by Trump.
Republican mascot
Its main success however remains the same God bless the United States, that he says he has “written on the back of a bus during his tour” and appeared in 1984. The song was certified platinum (sold more than one million copies) and reached number seven on the Billboard chart of the country’s most played country music at the time of its release. A few years later, he moved it into the world of politics.
The single was chosen to liven up the 1988 Republican National Convention and accompanied Ronald Reagan’s speech. The event made Lee Greenwood the mascot of the Conservatives. His music accompanied Republican candidate George HW Bush’s rallies that same year, then was broadcast to galvanize soldiers heading into the first Gulf War in 1991.
Bless everyone
For ten years the title has belonged to Donald Trump God bless the United States, which he transmits during all his meetings. “I had no idea, forty years ago, that my song would play a key role in such a historic presidential campaign. To President Trump and his millions of supporters, thank you!” Lee Greenwood exulted on Tuesday on his social networks.
Ardent defender of the ideas of the Republican candidate – in a podcast on YouTube a few months ago, he deplored the fact that“no government [américain] they have never closed the borders to China, to Iran, to terrorist organizations in Mexico” – he even accompanied the latter on campaign trips, despite his 82 years, to perform his song himself.
Like Trump, the great patriot is also a businessman. As the British comedian John Oliver recalled on his show on HBO A week ago, Lee Greenwood released a 1989 single titled… God bless you Canada. The lyrics to the song are almost identical, with one exception: This time, celebrate «Montreal» et “Winnipeg.” If the patriot defends his country, money has no borders.
Interview: The Intersection of Patriotism, Music, and Politics with Lee Greenwood Expert Dr. Maria Johnson
Time.news Editor: Welcome, Dr. Johnson. We’re excited to dive deep into the relationship between music and politics, especially focusing on Lee Greenwood and his anthem “God Bless the U.S.A.” This song has become almost synonymous with Republican campaigns. What do you think has made it resonate so deeply with Republican audiences since the 1980s?
Dr. Maria Johnson: Thank you for having me! Greenwood’s music taps into a certain idealistic vision of America that many Republicans feel represents their values. “God Bless the U.S.A.” embodies themes of patriotism, freedom, and a nostalgic view of American life. It paints a picture of an idyllic America, and during times of political division, it offers a sense of unity that many seek.
Time.news Editor: It’s fascinating how he has maintained relevancy. Recently, we saw that Donald Trump used this song extensively during his campaign, and Greenwood even encouraged his fans to support Trump. What role do you believe music plays in political campaigns today?
Dr. Maria Johnson: Music in political campaigns serves as a powerful tool for emotional connection. It creates an atmosphere that can amplify messages and rally supporters. In Greenwood’s case, his song functions as both a rallying cry and an emotional anchor. When Trump and other candidates utilize such anthems, it helps forge a shared identity among their supporters. It’s about creating a soundtrack for their vision of America.
Time.news Editor: Greenwood is also known for his Christian devotion and conservative values. How do his personal beliefs influence his music and the way it’s received?
Dr. Maria Johnson: Greenwood’s personal beliefs are woven into the fabric of his music. His Christian faith is evident in some of his songs, especially in the apocalyptic tones like “The Battle Hymn of the Republic.” This blend of patriotism with religious devotion has garnered him a loyal follower base that aligns with those traditional, conservative values. Fans see his authenticity and often connect these values with their own experiences and beliefs.
Time.news Editor: Let’s talk about the commercial aspect. Greenwood even published his own Bible, which is marketed as being endorsed by Trump. What does this say about the commercialization of culture in political contexts?
Dr. Maria Johnson: It highlights a significant trend where cultural artifacts—like music, literature, or even religious texts—are monetized in political arenas. Greenwood’s Bible, especially since it features the patriotic theme intertwined with religious devotion, caters to a niche market that values both. It’s a strategic move that reinforces his brand as a patriotic icon while capitalizing on current political sentiments. This kind of commercialization can also amplify his message by reaching broader audiences and creating a stronger community around shared beliefs.
Time.news Editor: Greenwood has referred to himself as a “Republican mascot.” How does this label shape his identity in the music industry and among his fans?
Dr. Maria Johnson: Being labeled a “Republican mascot” certainly reinforces his brand but also paints a complex picture. On one hand, it aligns him with politicized patriotism and gives him a strong identity within the Republican Party. On the other, it risks alienating fans who might not share the same political sentiments. However, Greenwood’s dedication to these values has solidified a loyal fan base that enjoys his music not just for its sound but for its message as well.
Time.news Editor: Lastly, as we approach the 2024 elections, how do you foresee the role of music like Greenwood’s evolving in political campaigns?
Dr. Maria Johnson: I believe we’ll see music continuing to play a central role in campaigns, especially as political polarization persists. Artists like Greenwood represent a nostalgic and aspirational vision that many voters cling to, and as long as candidates use that to galvanize their supporters, its role will remain significant. The challenge will be for artists to navigate their cultural and political identities in an increasingly complex landscape, especially as they attract a diverse audience.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Dr. Johnson, for your insights into the intersection of music, politics, and identity. It’s an evolving dialogue that certainly shapes how we engage with the electoral process!
Dr. Maria Johnson: Thank you! It’s a pleasure to discuss these important cultural dynamics.
