‘Culture Crash’ Episode 2: The Various Influences On American Patriotic Music

With the recent election, inauguration and now Presidents Day, our second episode of “Culture Crash” looks at patriotic songs.

Flying Carpet Theatre artistic director Adam Koplan joined “City Lights” host Lois Reitzes and talked about the origins of American patriotic music.

“You know, as we look at the songs we’re listening to, I think, in some way, they all reflect this melting pot that is America and the culture crash that we’re talking about,” Koplan said.

Three of America’s most revered patriotic songs — “God Bless America,” “This Land Is Your Land” and “Living in America” — represent the melting pot of this country.

The influences and origins of these songs come from a wide range of cultural backgrounds. They range from African Diaspora rhythms to Eastern European Jewish liturgical music to traditional Scottish ballads and Black gospel church music.

Music discussed in interview:

• “God Bless America” by Irving Berlin
• “This Land Is Your Land” by Woody Guthrie
• “Living in America” arranged (and interpreted) by James Brown
• “Say It Loud, I’m Black and I’m Proud” by James Brown

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