It's America
Rodney Atkins Lyrics


Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴  Line by Line Meaning ↴

Driving down the street today I saw a sign for lemonade
They were the cutest kids I'd ever seen in this front yard
As they handed me my glass, smiling thinking to myself
Man, what a picture-perfect postcard this would make of America

It's a high school prom, it's a Springsteen song, it's a ride in a Chevrolet
It's a man on the moon and fireflies in June and kids selling lemonade
It's cities and farms, it's open arms, one nation under God
It's America

Later on when I got home, I flipped the TV on
I saw a little town that some big twister tore apart
And people came from miles around just to help their neighbours out
And I was thinking to myself I'm so glad that I live in America

It's a high school prom, it's a Springsteen song, it's a ride in a Chevrolet
It's a man on the moon and fireflies in June and kids selling lemonade
It's cities and farms, it's open arms, one nation under God
It's America

Now we might not always get it all right
There's no place else I'd rather build my life
'Cause it's a kid with a chance, it's a rock 'n roll band
It's a farmer cuttin' hay
It's a big flag flyin' in a summer wind
Over a fallen hero's grave

It's a high school prom, it's a Springsteen song
It's a welcome home parade, yeah
It's a man on the moon and fireflies in June and kids sellin' lemonade




It's cities and farms, it's open arms, one nation under God
It's America! It's America! Oh, oh yeah, woo!

Overall Meaning

The song "It's America" by Rodney Atkins paints a picture of the many aspects and embodiments of what it means to live in America. The first verse is about encountering kids selling lemonade and how it represents the innocence and simplicity of American youth. The second verse is about a natural disaster that struck a small town and how everyone came together to help their neighbors. This occurrence represents the essence of community and being there for one another, one of America's strengths. The chorus has a patriotic tone that speaks to the country's many attributes, such as high school proms, rock 'n roll, open arms, and one nation under God. The lyrics remind listeners that despite the country's flaws, its virtues far outweigh its vices.


The song also touches on the topic of personal freedom and the promise that living in America offers to those who are willing to work hard. The line "It's a kid with a chance" implies that living in America means having opportunities for personal and professional advancement that might not be available elsewhere in the world. The song acknowledges that the country is not perfect, but that it is still the best place to live and build a life.


Overall, "It's America" is a tribute to the values that make America a great nation. It is about celebrating the American way of life, which includes hard work, diversity, resilience, and patriotism.


Line by Line Meaning

Driving down the street today I saw a sign for lemonade
Observing some cute children selling lemonade, showcasing how the entrepreneurial spirit of Americans is passed through generations


They were the cutest kids I'd ever seen in this front yard
The innocence of childhood and enthusiasm to achieve something in such a tender age is a great sight to behold


As they handed me my glass, smiling thinking to myself
Drinking a glass of lemonade offered by kids, pondering over how seemingly little things can bring joy to life


Man, what a picture-perfect postcard this would make of America
Admiring the simple beauty in life, one would find pride in calling America the land where such sights exist


Later on when I got home, I flipped the TV on
Watching television and coming across calamities and people coming together, highlighting the spirit of togetherness in America


I saw a little town that some big twister tore apart
Seeing firsthand the destruction brought about by natural calamities, yet noticing a silver lining in the people coming together to help those affected


And people came from miles around just to help their neighbors out
Witnessing communities that are willing to lend a helping hand, even if it means travelling great lengths to do so


And I was thinking to myself I'm so glad that I live in America
Grateful for the place one calls their home, acknowledging that everyone has their problems, but America is still a beacon of hope and help for many


It's a high school prom, it's a Springsteen song, it's a ride in a Chevrolet
The American experience is made of such diverse yet common things enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds


It's a man on the moon and fireflies in June and kids selling lemonade
The American experience is also defined by great achievements, the beauty of nature, and the entrepreneurial spirit of its youngest citizens


It's cities and farms, it's open arms, one nation under God
The American experience includes both urban and rural lifestyles, an invitation to all who come to make their lives here, and a shared sense of faith and unity


Now we might not always get it all right
Acknowledge that America is not perfect, but still has the capacity to make positive change


There's no place else I'd rather build my life
Despite its imperfections, America still stands as the land of opportunity, and the best place to pursue one's dreams


It's a kid with a chance, it's a rock 'n roll band
The American experience is extended to provide opportunities to everyone, regardless of where they come from and what they aspire towards


It's a farmer cuttin' hay
A nod towards the agricultural lifestyle that many Americans lead, and the importance of farming for the country's economy and food supply


It's a big flag flyin' in a summer wind
Symbolism of America's greatness, with the waving flag being an image of hope and pride


Over a fallen hero's grave
A tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice for the country's freedom, and a reminder of the debt owed to them by Americans


It's a high school prom, it's a Springsteen song
Reiterating the importance of the simple yet personally significant memories that Americans hold dear


It's a welcome home parade, yeah
A visible celebration of what America means to people who have been away, and a chance to be embraced back into their beloved country


It's a man on the moon and fireflies in June and kids sellin' lemonade
Re-listing the varied but inherently American experiences that make up the American experience


It's cities and farms, it's open arms, one nation under God
A reminder of the diverse experiences that exist within the United States, while highlighting the bond of unity that connects them all


It's America! It's America! Oh, oh yeah, woo!
Emphasizing the positive experiences that make America great and the awe they inspire




Lyrics © BMG Rights Management, Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: BRETT JAMES, ANGELO PETRAGLIA

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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Comments from YouTube:

Ted Emch

Every American should watch this NOW. We need this message now more than ever

Zachary Clausen

Yes

GuyWithAHeadset

PREACH IT BROTHER!

GuyWithAHeadset

PREACH IT BROTHER!

l s

Yes!!!

Yooper Couple

Agreed!!!!!

9 More Replies...

Flex_Anarchyy

What I love about Rodney Atkins music is that he sings about what a good life should be. Not spending time on our phones 24/7.

Megan

But wait a minute, if I spend 24/7 listening to Rodney is that ok? Just joking I'm to busy taking care of my goats and chickens and the rest of my farm animals

John Gittings

I agree. Darius Rucker sings about similar stuff. He’s one of my favorites.

Brayden and Zeus

Idc and not true you literally can be listening to Rodney Atkins 24/7

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