However you feel about the ongoing debate surrounding Osama bin Laden’s death, it can be safely said that there hasn’t been such an outpouring of pro-America patriotism since perhaps Obama’s campaign/inauguration. Like most people, American musicians have expressed a swirl of complicated and conflicted emotions. Beyoncé, though, firmly jumps on the “U.S.A. #1” train with her new version of “God Bless The USA.” She originally recorded the Lee Greenwood song for Obama’s 2008 campaign, but for whatever reason it stayed unreleased. Now, she finally drops the cover, donating all of the proceeds to the New York Police and Fire Widows’ and Children’s Benefit Fund.
While many of us may ironically belt this out while intoxicated at parties or family barbecues, you have to admire the sincerity of the cover. Beyoncé sings with conviction, as always, and even the most apathetic American can at least laugh at the absurdity of the woman who landed the word “bootylicious” in the English Dictionary singing about her patriotism. Is it a little cheesy and self-righteous to release this cover five days after the death of bin Laden? Definitely. Still, the money goes to a good cause, so even if you only want to add it to your next ironic party mix, at least buy it legally. (via CNN)
Beyoncé – God Bless the USA (Lee Greenwood cover)
Buy the single on iTunes.
