Patriotic Moments in Country Music History
Patriotic Moments in Country Music History
In celebration of America’s 250th birthday on Saturday, “Taste of Country” put together a list of patriotic moments in country music history.
For love of the red, white, and blue, here are the highlights:
1. Alan Jackson debuted “Where Were You (When the World Stopped Turning)” at the 2001 CMA Awards, two months after 9/11.
2. Toby Keith played for the troops in Iraq in 2008, but had to join soldiers in a concrete bunker after a round of mortar fire interrupted his performance. Of course, he went back onstage after.
3. Lee Brice got a truck back for a fallen soldier’s family.
4. Johnny Cash recited “Ragged Old Flag” in front of Congress in 1977.
5. Loretta Lynn became the first solo female country performer to sing at the White House in 1971 after she was invited by President Nixon. In 2013, President Obama awarded her the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
6. Dolly Parton wrote “Color Me America” after the 9/11 attacks.
7. Brantley Gilbert was given a fan’s Purple Heart in 2015.
8. Chris Stapleton’s performance of the National Anthem at the Super Bowl in 2023.
9. Craig Morgan re-enlisted and was sworn into the U.S. Army Reserve live onstage at the Opry in 2023.
10. Kellie Pickler performed for troops in Afghanistan on Christmas Day in 2013.
