About the song

“American Ride” is a country music anthem that has become synonymous with patriotism and social commentary. Written by Joe West and Dave Pahanish, the song was released in July 2009 as the lead single from Toby Keith’s album of the same name. The song’s catchy melody and witty lyrics have made it a fan favorite, but it has also sparked controversy and debate among music critics and listeners alike.

The song’s lyrics are a list of grievances about various issues in American society, from illegal immigration to climate change, and from lawsuits to the decline of religion. However, rather than being a straightforward critique, the song is more of a tongue-in-cheek commentary that pokes fun at both the left and the right. Keith’s delivery is upbeat and playful, with a sing-along chorus that has become a staple of his live shows.

The song’s music video, which debuted on CMT in August 2009, is an animated cartoon that features Keith and three friends riding motorcycles through a series of humorous and satirical scenes. The video has been praised for its cleverness and wit, and has become a fan favorite.

Despite receiving mixed reviews from critics, “American Ride” was a commercial success, reaching number one on the US Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and staying on the chart for 16 weeks. The song has also been certified platinum by the RIAA and has become one of Keith’s signature songs. With its catchy melody, witty lyrics, and humorous music video, “American Ride” is a country music anthem that is sure to be remembered for years to come.

Video

Lyrics

Winter getting colder, summer gettin’ warmer
Tidal wave come ‘cross the Mexican border
Why buy a gallon? It’s cheaper by the barrel
Just don’t get busted singing Christmas carols

That’s us, that’s right
Gotta love this American ride
Both ends of the ozone burnin’
Funny how the world keeps turnin’
Look Ma, no hands
I love this American ride
Gotta love this American ride

Mama gets her box off watchin’ “Desperate Housewives”
Daddy works his ass off payin’ for the good life
Kids on the Youtube learnin’ how to be cool
Livin’ in a cruel world, pays to be a mean girl

That’s us, that’s right
Gotta love this American ride
Both ends of the ozone burnin’
Funny how the world keeps turnin’
Look Ma, no hands
I love this American ride
Gotta love this American ride

Poor little infamous, America’s town
She gained five pound and lost her crown
Quick fix plastic surgical antidote
Got herself a record deal, can’t even sing a note

Plasma gettin’ bigger, Jesus gettin’ smaller
Spill a cup of coffee, make a million dollars
Customs caught a thug with an aerosol can
If the shoe don’t fit, the fit’s gonna hit the shan

That’s us, that’s right
Gotta love this American ride
Both ends of the ozone burnin’
Funny how the world keeps turnin’
Hot dog, hot damn
I love this American ride
Gotta love this American ride
Oh yeah

Na na, na na na na
Na na, na na na na
Na na, na na na na
Na na na na na

By Châu