Celebrating America’s 250th Anniversary Through Music
Commemorating America’s 250th anniversary wouldn’t be complete without acknowledging the vital role of art, culture, and storytelling. As part of a special initiative, we reached out to some of Nashville’s gifted songwriters and artists, requesting them to create original songs that resonate with their feelings about America. The acoustic performances featured here represent the very first public renditions of these works. We take pride in introducing what we’ve termed the “American Soundtrack.”
A while back, we came across a song that truly moved us, prompting us to showcase it. The song, When the Kingdom Comes by Lee Brice, inspired deep reflection. In an exclusive chat, Brice shared insights about the writing process and his co-author, Billy Montana. Brice referred to Montana as “a faith leader and a poet,” a sentiment echoed by many in Nashville. Montana, originally from New York, moved to Nashville in 1989 to pursue songwriting—an endeavor that led to five No. 1 singles, including a hit for Garth Brooks. His catalog is impressive, with songs also recorded by notable artists like Emmylou Harris and Blake Shelton.
For the American Soundtrack, Montana collaborated with another talented songwriter, David Tolliver. Not only is Tolliver an exceptional singer, but he’s also part of the country rock duo Halfway to Hazard. His contributions earned him nominations and allowed him to tour with big names like Tim McGraw and Faith Hill. As a writer, his songs have been embraced by a variety of artists, including Chris Young and Wynonna Judd. In recent collaborations, Tolliver and Brice released Miyagi Prefecture, a musical tribute to Karate Kid, which is definitely worth a listen.
Montana recently explained his perspective on American storytelling while discussing another original song, Looks Like America, created to honor the nation’s 250th anniversary. He drew inspiration from the way small communities in Tennessee, especially Nolensville, come together each Fourth of July, embodying the spirit of small-town America. “Hey, that’s true,” he reflects, “like America.”
From the very first strum of the guitar, alongside the harmonica, listeners are enveloped in the essence of what small-town America means. There’s no doubt, Looks Like America encapsulates the American spirit well.
With a unifying feeling, the song paints a vivid picture of American life, reflecting simplicity and community.
Looks Like America
Authors: Billy Montana, David Tolliver
Performers: Billy Montana
Put a blanket on the ground,
Hot summer night,
Around the whole town,
July 4th,
Red, white, and blue explode in the sky.
The high school band enlivens the scene,
Everyone knows the words, so let’s sing together.
God has showered you with grace,
Truth moves forward.
Looks like America,
Sounds like what it should be.
Looks like America,
Sounds like America to me.
It’s doing the right thing,
I’m lending a hand.
Making friends with strangers,
This land is my land, and it’s your land.
Looks like America,
Sounds like what it should be.
Looks like America,
Sounds like America to me.
18-wheeler highway roar,
Church bells cross a green cornfield.
Desert and canyon, glass and steel,
The eagle flies, and will continue to fly.
Looks like America,
Sounds like what it should be.
Looks like America,
Sounds like America to me.
