We have a collection of 3 arrangements for Irving Berlin - God Bless America
Which iconic American song was written by an immigrant who became a patriotic symbol? Learn!
"God Bless America" is a patriotic song that's considered a sort of unofficial anthem in the United States. Here are some interesting facts about this iconic piece:
Composer: The song was composed by Irving Berlin, one of America's most celebrated songwriters, in 1918. However, it wasn't released to the public until 1938.
Original Purpose: Initially, Berlin wrote "God Bless America" during World War I for a musical called "Yip, Yip, Yaphank," but he decided not to use it at the time.
Debut: The song was first introduced to the public by singer Kate Smith during her radio broadcast on Armistice Day in 1938. It became an instant hit and a symbol of hope and unity, especially during times of crisis.
Popularity during World War II: During World War II, "God Bless America" gained immense popularity and was frequently sung to boost morale among troops and civilians alike.
Controversy: Despite its popularity, the song faced some controversy due to its idealistic and patriotic themes. Some critics argued it was overly sentimental or exclusionary to certain groups.
Verses Removed: Originally, "God Bless America" had a somewhat longer version with different verses. Over time, some of these verses were removed, and the more familiar version that we know today became the standard.
Performance at Sporting Events: The song has become a staple at sporting events, particularly during significant moments or holidays, where it's often sung to honor the nation.
Cultural Impact: Over the years, "God Bless America" has been recorded by numerous artists and has been used in various movies, television shows, and public events, solidifying its place as a patriotic classic.
Charitable Contributions: Irving Berlin assigned the copyright and all royalties from "God Bless America" to the God Bless America Fund, which benefits the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts of America.
Presidential Acknowledgment: Several U.S. presidents have made reference to or quoted lyrics from "God Bless America" in their speeches, emphasizing its significance as a symbol of national unity.
"God Bless America" remains a timeless and widely recognized patriotic anthem that continues to evoke strong emotions and pride among Americans.