About The Song
“American Soldier” is a poignant and patriotic country song by American singer Toby Keith. Released in 2003, the song pays tribute to the bravery and sacrifices of the men and women serving in the United States Armed Forces.
Background and Release
- Artist: Toby Keith
- Album: Shock’n Y’all
- Release Date: November 4, 2003
- Label: DreamWorks Nashville
Songwriters and Production
- Written by: Toby Keith, Chuck Cannon
- Produced by: James Stroud, Toby Keith
Musical Style and Themes
“American Soldier” is a mid-tempo country ballad with a heartfelt and emotional melody. The song features acoustic guitar and strings, creating a poignant backdrop for Keith’s powerful vocals. The lyrics express gratitude, admiration, and empathy for the sacrifices made by soldiers and their families. Keith sings from the perspective of a soldier, reflecting on the challenges and responsibilities of military service, as well as the pride and honor that come with defending one’s country.
Chart Performance
“American Soldier” achieved significant success on various music charts:
- Billboard Hot Country Songs: Reached number one
- Billboard Hot 100: Peaked at number 28
Impact and Legacy
“American Soldier” struck a chord with audiences, particularly in the aftermath of the September 11 attacks and during ongoing military deployments. The song’s sincere and heartfelt tribute to service members resonated deeply with listeners, earning praise for its authenticity and emotional resonance. It became an anthem for military personnel and their families and remains a symbol of gratitude and respect for those who serve in the armed forces.
Music Video
The music video for “American Soldier,” directed by Michael Salomon, features Toby Keith performing the song against a backdrop of military imagery, including footage of soldiers in action, reunions with loved ones, and scenes of everyday life on military bases. The video captures the song’s themes of sacrifice, duty, and patriotism, paying tribute to the bravery and resilience of service members.
Awards and Recognition
“American Soldier” received widespread acclaim and recognition, including nominations for:
- Academy of Country Music Awards: Song of the Year
- CMT Music Awards: Male Video of the Year
Legacy
“American Soldier” remains one of Toby Keith’s most revered and enduring songs. It continues to be played at military events, patriotic ceremonies, and on radio stations across the country. The song’s message of gratitude and support for the troops transcends musical boundaries, making it a timeless anthem of patriotism and appreciation for the sacrifices of America’s soldiers.
Video
Lyrics
Let’s sing along with the lyrics!
I’m just trying to be a father
Raise a daughter and a son
Be a lover to their mother
Everything to everyone
Up and at ’em bright and early
I’m all business in my suit
Yeah, I’m dressed up for success
From my head down to my boots
I don’t do it for the money
There’s bills that I can’t pay
I don’t do it for the glory
I just do it anyway
Providing for our future’s my responsibility
Yeah, I’m real good under pressure
Being all that I can be
And I can’t call in sick on Mondays
When the weekends been too strong
I just work straight through the holidays
And sometimes all night long
You can bet that I stand ready
When the wolf growls at the door
Hey, I’m solid, hey I’m steady
Hey I’m true down to the core
And I will always do my duty
No matter what the price
I’ve counted up the cost
I know the sacrifice
Oh, and I don’t want to die for you
But if dyin’s asked of me
I’ll bear that cross with honor
‘Cause freedom don’t come free
I’m an American soldier, an American
Beside my brothers and my sisters
I will proudly take a stand
When liberty’s in jeopardy
I will always do what’s right
I’m out here on the front lines
Sleep in peace tonight
American soldier, I’m an American soldier
yeah, an American soldier, an American
Beside my brothers and my sisters
I will proudly take a stand
When liberty’s in jeopardy
I will always do what’s right
I’m out here on the front lines
So sleep in peace tonight
American soldier, I’m an American
an American
an American soldier
