This Memorial Day, be sure to remember those that paid the highest of sacrifice, giving their lives to protect this country. In Rock and Roll there have been many songs that reflect our countries pride. Here are a few worth remembering this day…
“Ballad of the Green Beret” by Sgt. Barry Sadler is one of the few songs during the Vietnam War that praised the efforts of the soldiers, supporting the troops and missions. Conservatives and patriotic Hollywood stars loved this single from 1966.
“Lucky Man” by Emerson Lake and Palmer was about the assassination of JFK, but the under tone of ‘anti war’ sentiment was loud and clear. War has consequences and a high body count.
“For Whom the Bell Tolls” by Metallica is a recent classic. Typical Metallica with a powerful sound and message.
The song “Eve of Destruction” by Barry McGuire was a hit single that was turned down by the Byrds and the Turtles, yet originally recorded by Jan and Dean, then later Barry.
“Unknown Soldier” by the Doors was released at the height of the Vietnam War, written to demonstrate Jim Morrison’s anger of how the media was reporting the war.
Creedence Clearwater Revival “Unfortunate Son” was the ‘B’ side of the popular single “Down on the Corner” in September of 1969. John Fogerty witnessed Julie Nixon with David Eisenhower on TV and realized they were of the privileged class, never being called to duty or getting their hands dirty with killing.
“Sky Pilot” by Eric Burdon and War is written from a war Chaplin’s point of view, speaking to the troops before they take to the air.
Honorable mentions this Memorial Day go to the songs “Brothers in Arms” by Dire Straits, Edwin Star and “War,” Sammy Hagar and “Remember the Heroes,” “Sunday Bloody Sunday” from U2, “Give Peace a Chance” by John Lennon, “Ohio” the classic by CSNY and finally Brice Springsteen’s “Born in the USA.”