Today is Independence Day in the U.S., so we put together a playlist of songs by Canadian musicians inspired by the land of star spangled banner. We’re not going to comment on the State’s foreign policy or those sorts of things (but if you must, then indulge in some Bruce Cockburn). Instead we’ll focus on songs influenced by the people, places and ideas of America. “Empty Threat” by Kathleen Edwards talks about the temptation to move to America. Destroyer’s “Song For America” is four and a half minutes of smooth jazz-infused stream-of-conciousesque dream music. And I’m really, really sorry for including The Guess Who’s iconic “American Woman” to finish off this playlist. It just had to happen.
Kathleen Edwards feat. Hannah Georgas – Empty Threat
Apollo Ghosts – I’m In Love With The USA
Destroyer – Song For America
K’naan – America
The Besnard Lakes – Chicago Train
Writer’s Strike – New York City
Bahamas – Southern Drawl
Said The Whale – Jesse, AR
The Guess Who – American Woman
Photo of Said the Whale: Mixtape/Scott Blackburn