11 Country Songs Honoring Fallen Soldiers on Memorial Day

One of the greatest gifts that country music gives to its listeners is the ability to heal hearts after tragedy strikes. For those who have ever lost a loved one in war, Memorial Day honors those who gave their lives to maintain the freedom and safety of the United States. The holiday remembers all of the armed forces’ members who dedicated everything to fight for this country and some country artists have taken that notion into their own music.

To commemorate the impact of those soldiers’ dedication on this significant holiday, Sounds Like Nashville created a playlist of the country songs that honor the fallen and the sacrifices they made. Here are a few tracks dedicated to those who gave it all up for the red, white and blue:

“American Soldier” – Toby Keith

Many people can’t even begin to fathom the price that every American soldier faces as they take on the responsibility of fighting for their country. Toby Keith channels the strength behind a soldier’s motivation in this patriotic ballad.

“Where Were You When The World Stopped Turning” – Alan Jackson

Everyone remembers exactly where they were when they heard the horrific news on 9/11. It still gives us chills at how Alan Jackson depicted our deepest, darkest thoughts on the day that forever changed the country.

“God Bless The USA” – Lee Greenwood

What a classic! Played at baseball games and parades alike, “God Bless the USA” is a staple in every American’s song library. As one of the chorus lyrics sings, we will never forget those who died and gave their lives in order for America to be forever free.

“Some Gave All” – Billy Ray Cyrus

Realizing how much a member of the armed forces does for the entire nation is a humbling thought. They give up everything to defend their homeland, even if they pay the ultimate price. Based on a story of a veteran, Billy Ray Cyrus honors the words from just one man who took great pride in his country.

“Arlington” – Trace Adkins

The heartwrenching reality behind war can never be described with justice. As Trace Adkins captures in this tearworthy tune, the sound of twenty-one guns can make any heart break over the grieving circumstances of battle.

“Chicken Fried” – Zac Brown Band

Alright, this song may not sound like the most flag-waving dedication to the lost ones of war. But Zac Brown Band salutes those who served within the bridge and thank them for allowing us to live our lives without fear (as well as being able to enjoy some good home cooking).

“8^th of November” – Big & Rich

Written in honor of the 173^rd Airborne that was attacked during the Vietnam War, Big & Rich vividly paint the picture of the frightening moment in history in which 48 soldiers died. With this song, the duo made sure no one would ever forget those men or that day.

“God Bless America” – Martina McBride

While this iconic American track has been performed by so many artists, Martina’s rendition is bar none one of the greatest live performances of the song. She captures the deep powerful connections each and every American feels when they hear the beloved anthem.

“If You’re Reading This” – Tim McGraw

Break out the tissues because Tim McGraw is bringing all the tears with this letter-inspired song about a soldier dying on the battlefield. Striking us right in the heart, it’s hard to fight off the sadness we feel over a loss described in this track.

“I Drive Your Truck” – Lee Brice

The story behind this song started on one Memorial Day years ago when the writer heard an interview on the radio of a dad who lost his son in Afghanistan. He told the announcer that he wanted to drive his son’s old truck all day in order to remember him and that he did, in time and in song.

“For You” – Keith Urban

Taking on the responsibility of possibly taking a bullet for this country takes a step beyond just a simple sacrifice. To lay down your life for the sake of so many others deserves the utmost respect and honor, which is what Keith Urban sings about in this Act of Valor soundtrack song.

Stream Sounds Like Nashville’s America the Beautiful playlist below and follow it HERE!