Despite her global fame and crossover success, Dolly Parton never got above her East Tennessee raising, continuing to this day to write songs reflecting values learned in the Smoky Mountains.
For God and Country took this a step forward in 2003, comforting a post-9/11 nation with songs reflecting her Christian faith and unwavering patriotism.
Parton's fame, flashiness, benevolence and trademark vocal delivery might overshadow a truth for a lot of fans — she's one of the greatest songwriters, regardless of genre or gender, of the past 50 years. The lesser-known "Color Me America" drives this point home by fitting in on an album filled with famous songs for God ("Whispering Hope") and country ("God Bless the USA").
As you would want and expect from Parton, it's a song about being proud of where you're from, with no hints of bias against outsiders or vengeance over global headlines. So, before time for the family cookout, celebrate America with one of its proudest patriots.
"Color Me America" Lyrics
I am red and white and blue
these are colors that ring true
to all I am and feel and love and do
I stand proud and brave and tall
I want justice for us all
so color me America, red, white and blue
I see red when evil speaks
spilling red blood on our streets
and I feel blue from grief and sorrow that it brings
but the white and light of love
God's own spirit like a dove
lift's us up and hands to us an olive branch
oh, sweet freedom may you stay
in our land and lives always
and may peace and beauty fill our hearts anew
and may we all stand up for you;
may our thoughts and deeds be true
and be worthy of your stripes... red, white and blue
I am red and white and blue
these are colors that ring true
to all I am and feel and love and do
I stand proud and brave and tall
I want justice for us all
so color me america, red, white and blue
Oh, sweet America
God won't you shed your grace on thee
and crown thy good in brotherhood
from sea to shining sea
oh, color me America
red, white and blue, color me America
READ MORE: 20 Most Patriotic Country Songs
