Who's behind the notes? Discover Irving Berlin: The Father of American Songwriting
"God Bless America" is a patriotic song written by Irving Berlin. Here are some interesting facts about the song and its composer:
Composition: Irving Berlin wrote "God Bless America" in 1918 during World War I, but he revised and released it in 1938 during the buildup to World War II.
Kate Smith's Performance: The most famous version of the song was performed by singer Kate Smith. She first performed it on her radio show in 1938, and her rendition became immensely popular.
Patriotic Anthem: "God Bless America" quickly became an unofficial national anthem of the United States. Its heartfelt lyrics and melody struck a chord with the American public, especially during times of war and national unity.
Donation to the Boy and Girl Scouts: Berlin was so dedicated to the patriotic cause that he donated all the royalties from the song to the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts of the USA.
Not the Original Anthem: While it is widely recognized and appreciated, "God Bless America" is not the official national anthem of the United States. "The Star-Spangled Banner" holds that distinction.
Presidential Medal of Freedom: In 1977, Irving Berlin was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom for his contributions to American music and culture, with "God Bless America" specifically mentioned.
Versions by Various Artists: Over the years, many artists have recorded their own versions of "God Bless America," contributing to its enduring popularity. It has been performed in various styles and genres.
Irving Berlin's "God Bless America" remains a timeless and cherished patriotic song in the United States, evoking a sense of national pride and unity.