Finding the right balance for any playlist can be tricky, and while you’re going to need to have some staples, it also doesn’t hurt to have a few fun surprises in your rotation either. Patriotic songs are the perfect tunes to enjoy during Veterans Day, and we have ten great selections. Spanning various genres, here are ten patriotic songs for Veterans Day you’ll love.

1. “American Girl” by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers

Starting off strong, there is arguably no better track to add to your patriotic songs for Veterans Day than that of the classic tune from Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, “American Girl.”

Although this 1976 single didn’t chart when it was released, it’s become a fan favorite. It's also a prime example of 1970s patriotic songs delivering strong Americana vibes to parties and road trips ever since.

Recorded on the Fourth of July, during the Bicentennial of the United States, you don’t need an American holiday to celebrate one of classic rock’s most iconic tracks, but it sure doesn’t hurt either.

2. “The Star Spangled Banner” by Jimi Hendrix

In 1967, an Army Veteran went on stage at a little music festival called Woodstock. He began playing a haunting version of our national anthem that is still legendary to this day—the rest is history.

Arguably the greatest guitarist of all time, Hendrix is the full embodiment of a true rockstar, whose flame unfortunately flared too high too quickly.

Nevertheless, his short career gave us plenty of classic songs to work with, but nothing as patriotic as his guitar-driven rendition of “The Star Spangled Banner.”

3. “Courtesy of the Red, White And Blue (The Angry American)” by Toby Keith

Known for his avid support of the U.S. Armed Forces, patriotic country songs, and celebrity feuds, Toby Keith delivered this masterpiece off of his album Unleashed, following the death of his father and the attack on 9/11.

Some may think it’s a bit corny and that’s fine. But, if you can’t enjoy this song after a few beers and take pride in the red, white, and blue, reevaluate your life.

4. “America, F**k Yeah” by D.V.D.A

In 2004, the team behind South Park delivered the crass comedy film Team America: World Police and with it, delivered a theme song that would live on for decades among fans.

If the literal title of the song and the fact that it’s from the team responsible for one of the most controversial cartoons of all time aren’t enough clues, let’s be clear here—do not add this to your playlist if you are afraid of the f-bomb, off-color jokes, etc.

Patriotic songs don’t really get more raunchy than this one but if you have a good sense of humor and are looking for some fun, this is the track for you.

5. “Welcome to America” by Lecrae

Sometimes, you need to look at yourself. Luckily, Lecrae provides over four minutes of introspection with everything from immigration, the plight of Veterans, poverty, religion, and many other topics touched on over that time.

There are plenty of black, white, and gray areas explored here and at the end of it, it’s pretty clear just how many things we can all take for granted at times living in the United States—including the Veterans that make this all possible.

6. “Take Me Home, Country Roads” by John Denver

In the 1970s, John Denver released a patriotic song that transcends our nation and the English language.

Today, you can hear “Take Me Home, Country Roads” sung in popular movies and shows as well as in sporting events around the world.

Adding this to your playlist is a great way to start a sing-along and the classic track is a must for Veterans Day and beyond.

7. “Some Gave All” by Billy Ray Cyrus

Off his debut album of the same name, "Some Gave All" by Billy Ray Cyrus is a direct tribute to the Veterans of our nation who have sacrificed for our freedom.

A stoic reminder that freedom has a high price and is a patriotic song delivering on Veterans Day and beyond.

If you enjoy country from the early ‘90s and/or power ballads from around the same era, this is a must-listen.

8. “Party in the U.S.A.” by Miley Cyrus

Ever since 2009, listeners have been trying to figure out exactly what Jay-Z song was on; however, while this might still be a mystery, we were gifted with an absolute bop from Miley Cyrus in the process.

Billy Ray’s now-estranged daughter was able to provide a patriotic song that fits as the backdrop to any party, makes traffic more bearable, and is the perfect tune if you need something upbeat to get through the work day.

9. “Only in America” by Brooks & Dunn

Our nation is made up of many different people, cultures, and dreams. That’s the beauty of the American Dream. There are many different versions of it and people can pursue their own form of happiness.

“Only in America” explores the different walks of life among Americans, providing a patriotic song that everyone can relate to in some form or another and carries a catchy tune.

10. "Color Me America" by Dolly Parton

Finally, to round off our top ten picks, how could any list of patriotic songs be complete without the iconic voice of Dolly Parton?

Country royalty, Dolly released “Color Me America” as a great tribute to our nation in 2003. It has been in playlist rotations ever since.

The song is off of an entire collection of patriotic songs perfect for Veterans Day after Dolly released her album For God and Country in response to the September 11 attack.

Patriotic songs for Veterans Day and about America, in general, can be found throughout the album’s 18 tracks, providing you plenty of options for whatever occasion you’re setting the mood for.

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