September 11, 2001, Changed So Much For So Many People.

For Toby Keith, he got mad and leaned into what he did best: writing songs. His father passed away in March 2001, and following the September 11th attacks, he was inspired to write his eventual hit song, “Courtesy of the Red, White, and Blue (The Angry American).”

The patriotic song quickly became an anthem of American patriotism and resilience in the wake of the terrorist attacks.

Keith wrote the song in just 20 minutes, driven by his emotions surrounding the national tragedy and his father’s military service. His father, H.K. Covel, was a veteran who instilled a deep sense of patriotism in Keith. The raw and straightforward lyrics reflect Keith’s feelings of anger and resolve.

The chorus, “And you’ll be sorry that you messed with the U.S. of A. / ‘Cause we’ll put a boot in your ass / It’s the American way,” captures the defiant spirit and readiness to defend the country.

The Song Was Initially Intended For Keith’s Live Shows To Entertain Military Personnel And Their Families.

However, it quickly gained popularity and was included in his album Unleashed, released in July 2002. The single became a significant hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart and crossing over to the Billboard Hot 100, which peaked at number 25.

“Courtesy of the Red, White, and Blue” received a mixed critical reception. Many praised its unapologetic patriotism and raw emotion, while others criticized it for its aggressive tone. The song also began a public feud between Keith and Natalie Maines of The Chicks (then the Dixie Chicks) that lasted until 2003.

Regardless, the song resonated deeply with many Americans and became an anthem of the post-9/11 era, symbolizing the nation’s unity and determination.

Keith performed the song at various events, including a 2002 Fourth of July concert in Washington, D.C., which was broadcast on national television. The performance solidified the song’s place in American patriotic music. Over the years, it remained a staple in Keith’s concerts, especially during performances for U.S. troops.

“Courtesy of the Red, White, and Blue” exemplifies how music can capture and convey the emotions of a nation during a pivotal moment in history. Toby Keith’s heartfelt tribute to his father and his country continues to resonate with listeners, making it a lasting piece of American patriotic culture.