Written by Dustin James Performed by Brittini Black
This wonderfully written, heartfelt song was inspired by Dustin James' first-time visit to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island in December 2008. And Brittini Black performs it movingly.
Dustin James explains the story behind America...
"My wife and I had the opportunity to tour the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Museum during a visit to NYC in December 2008. The experience was incredible and among the most moving in recent memory. Millions of people, most having nothing, risking everything for a shot at a better life for themselves and their children. Seeing the weary faces and reading the individual stories of hardship and triumph was a great personal reminder of just how special my country really is.
I flew back to Nashville feeling deeply inspired and holding a renewed sense of gratefulness for my country and my freedom. After writing America and having it demod, it occurred to me that hearing it might provide others with the same feelings of hope, pride and gratitude Id experienced during my visit to Liberty and Ellis. I created this video and the MySpace page to share America with all of you.
This song contains no hidden political agenda. It does not scold the way we are or lament the way we were. It is but a simple tribute to a remarkable country by one deeply grateful citizen. God Bless America."
LYRICS of America
What would bring a young man, to rise up from his birthplace pack his life into a suitcase and set sail for distant shores And what would cause a Grandma, after 80 years of living to leave her little village not knowing what may lay in store What could fill the hopeless millions with a newly-kindled faith in a brighter future far across the waves I can almost hear them say
CHORUS America, I hear you calling me Sweet land of liberty, I'm on my way America, beckoning with open arms I long to feel the warmth of freedom's flame God has given hope a name, America
They spent the voyage crowded at the bottom of a steamer fightin famine, fear and fever for six long weeks or more Children cried from hunger, oh and mothers wept for babies praying they would make it to see the other shore But the weariness and worry must've melted from their eyes to behold that lady rising in the sky Oh cant you hear them cry
CHORUS America, I hear you calling me Sweet land of liberty, I'm on my way America, beckoning with open arms I long to feel the warmth of freedom's flame God has given hope a name, America
BRIDGE So I will not take for granted this life I'm blessed to lead or the ones who sacrificed so much to hand it down to me Cause not so long ago, this land I call home was just a dream of huddled masses yearning to breathe free
CHORUS America, may God keep you in his hand keep you strong and help you stand, this I pray America, hold high your splendid torch let the whole world feel the warmth of freedom's flame God has given hope a name, America
