Here it is, the defining weekend of the American summer, Fourth of July weekend. Barbeques (to which we have the soundtrack), parades (one of which I will be marching in as an elected public official), fireworks (which I cannot watch enough), and an Old Navy flag shirt. At least, that's what my weekend will look like. So, I wanted to send you all off to your parties and celebrations with some holiday inspired music.

Now, my all-time favorite "Fourth of July" song actually has nothing to do with patriotism, or American pride. It's really just the context for listening to X and John Doe's relationship unravel in song. But, much like the holiday is really the setting for Springsteen's classic "Fourth of July, Asbury Park", and two Ani DiFranco songs which are just brilliant, this song isn't meant to invoke a traditional Americana. Atlhough, I imagine a Fourth of July in some California towns looks much like the scene in this song. And I love this song for irrational reasons, which are the best reasons to love music.

Honorable mention to a song that I never would have even known existed, save for the fact that my friends covered it in their set last Saturday night. A little bit of country, which is always ok on the Fourth. Besides, if your name is Shooter, and your dad is Waylon, I think you're morally obligated to write an American holiday anthem.

So, Happy Fourth, kids! Don't burn your fingers off shooting roman candles at your friends and relations. Wishing I could party with my friends here on the blog, but that would require either private helicopters or the ability to apparate. I'll be thinking of you both, though. Party safe, and we'll see you on the flip side.

Labels: fourth of july, shooter jennings, throw down, x