Considering that the 4th of July is just around the corner I thought it would be an interesting challenge to look for five patriotic rap songs celebrating the holiday or the USA. I knew in advance this would be difficult. Rappers have historically challenged the status quo, railed against racism in AmeriKKKa, and at times even suggested disrespecting the flag as a symbol of hypocrisy. This shouldn’t be a problem for patriots who respect our First Amendment and the right to freedom of speech, but we all know the right wing conservatives who complain about rap music ARE the hypocrites rappers rail against. I tried to avoid songs that referenced events of the last eight years, which probably made this task a LOT harder, but here’s my best shot! PS: I know the irony of including Mr. Graham in this list but since he featured Alicia Keys I felt that was “American” enough.

1.) 2 Live Crew – “Banned in the U.S.A.”

2.) Double R f/ Bizzy Bone – “Proud to Be American”

3.) CEO Trayle – “July the Fourth”

4.) Drake f/ Alicia Keys – “Fireworks”

5.) Lil Wayne f/ Young Jeezy – “Fireworks”