Life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness
I had no intentions of an Independence-Day-themed post, but I actually Googled over and started reading the Declaration of Independence (whose signing we celebrate today) and looking in my iTunes library for related tuneage, and I couldn’t resist. We’re having a BBQ later today, and there’d probably be some fireworks if it weren’t so darn dry and hot here. There will, however, be Fat Tire (that’s American) and burgers.
Seven for celebrating:
Star Spangled Banner – Jimi Hendrix
Revolution (Love version) – The Beatles
4th of July, Asbury Park (Sandy) – The Hollies covering Springsteen
American Life In The Summertime – Francis Dunnery
8 More Days Til The 4th of July – Ike Reilly Assassination
American Music – Violent Femmes
God Bless America – The Damnwells
Additions:
Counterclockwise – Roger Clyne & The Peacemakers
(this is what I want my day to be like, exactly)
4th of July – X (thanks for the comments!)
Name: Heather Browne
Cool tunes, thanks for that. I’m an expat in the Netherlands trying to find some 4th of July vibe here at work, this really helps.
Just one remark: How about some “X” in there? 4th of July is really a top tune (and was fit in really well by Steve Buscemi in an episode of the Sopranos last year). Happy 4th everone:
She’s waiting for me when I get home from work
Oh, but things just ain’t the same
She turns out the light and cries in the dark
And she won’t answer when I call her name
On the stairs I smoke a cigarette alone
Mexican kids are shooting fireworks below
And, hey baby
It’s the fourth of July
Hey baby
It’s the fourth of July
She gives me her cheek when I want her lips
Oh, but I don’t have the strength to go
On the lost side of town in a dark apartment
We gave up trying so long ago
On the stairs I smoke a cigarette alone
Mexican kids are shooting fireworks below
And, hey baby
It’s the fourth of July
Hey baby
It’s the fourth of July
Whatever happened, I apologize
Dry your tears, and baby walk outside
It’s the fourth of July
Glen — July 4, 2007 @ 3:23 am
I was going to post a comment about “4th of July” by X, which has also been covered by X members Dave Alvin and John Doe, but Glen beat me to it. So, how about “American Music” also by X, which has also been covered by John Doe and Dave Alvin. It is a great song about “A U.S. Soldier boy on leave in West Berlin.”
Bill — July 4, 2007 @ 5:17 am
What a great song by Francis Dunnery. I remember picking up one of his CD’s years ago. It’s been a long time since I’ve heard his name. Another great, appropriate song for today is “4th of July” by Aimee Mann. I have it posted on my blog, if you are interested in checking it out.
jonsnow — July 4, 2007 @ 5:59 am
The music sounds great as I really appreciate your choice of beer!!
Chad — July 4, 2007 @ 7:30 am
I know you meant Ike Reilly Assassination.
Anonymous — July 4, 2007 @ 9:09 am
I did, thank you. It was late.
heather — July 4, 2007 @ 10:11 am
Heather! No Bruce Springsteen’s “Born In The USA”? I’m shocked!
Matthew — July 4, 2007 @ 11:08 am
Add a dash of Paul Robeson’s American Ballad – more people should know about that and its wild,declaration of independence inspired,lyrics.
Anonymous — July 4, 2007 @ 1:51 pm
What is it about anything Asbury?
The ocean spray stings my face and the paper lanterns are lit on “Sandy”. Nice find heather,I hope yours is happy.
btw: I can’t wait to hear what The Damnwells do next.
debs — July 4, 2007 @ 6:43 pm
Nice. I had a Fat Tire today as well, but hot dogs and brats instead of burgers. Oh and LOTS of fireworks. Cheers.
Eric — July 4, 2007 @ 8:01 pm
Aimee Mann’s “4th of July” is a great, sad song. Would make a good addition.
D'Anne — July 6, 2007 @ 10:59 pm