"Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue" Revised

After 9/11, patriotism in America exploded. Patriotism came to the forefront in all aspects of life including the media, movies, school, church, fashion, bumper stickers and yard decorations, music and politics. Our country united very strongly for a common cause. Differences in race, economics and politics were quickly put aside as our nation banded together to chase the anti-American demons from our doorsteps. Muslims were branded as enemy number one.

As a result of this earth shattering event, many American entertainers grabbed on to the patriotic spirit of the American people and used it as material for their work. Toby Keith emerged as one of the vocal leaders of the patriotic movement. The macho man gave his efforts to show everyone that listened to his lyrics just what Old Glory stood for. His song, “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue”, immediately made it to the top of the country music charts. Listening to this song pumped up the listener and made him/her proud to be an American. It reassured us and told us not to fear—we would put a boot in the enemy’s posterior and kick him into eternity, just like America has always done to her enemies (lines 39, 40 of the song). America has been the champion of freedom and considered the leader of the world. Then, a group of extremists came charging into our world, unafraid, and gave us a “sucker punch from the back” (line 17 and 18 of the song). How dare them!!! These extremists made every effort to dim the lights of freedom that had been paid for many times with the blood of our friends and families before us. Keith’s own father lost his right eye in the army but his loyalty to the flag never faltered (lines 8, 9, 10 of the song).

Toby Keith reached his goal of fostering patriotism in a society reeling from the devastation of the first foreign attack on our soil. “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue,” is pathos laden song. It appeals to the emotions of the majority of the American public—a public still in shock from the attack. Keith sings about time-enduring icons that are symbols of American life. The tone of his voice makes it easy for me to visualize the Statue of Liberty shaking her fist, Uncle Sam writing terrorist at the top of his list, a soaring eagle, and Mother Freedom, in a Puritan style dress, ringing the Liberty Bell. Toby Keith makes a convincing argument that if you push the button too hard, America will fight and will win (Justice will be served…from the fifth verse of the song). This is the same image that Toby Keith wants his audience to have of him. Through his size and physical appearance, Keith betrays a strength that others look up to. Using ethos as a rhetorical strategy, Toby Keith becomes an iconic image of America in much the same way as the Statue of Liberty. As he performs this song, he is the epitome of American strength. When Toby entertains his audience, he wears a beard, hat, jeans and boots. The rugged look demonstrates that he is not afraid to face those that question his physical toughness. From my point of view, I believe he would defend my freedom to the bitter end, but he would gladly kick my posterior if I questioned what our ancestors had sacrificed for all of us to be happy. Protestors against our flag would not go very far with Toby Keith. If you are not willing to be an asset when times are troubled, then you have no place in the America that Toby Keith knows.

Politically, Toby Keith is rallying the masses to stand up for the troops as they are willing to risk their lives without reservation. The dastardly deeds of the extremists must not go unpunished. Terrorist felt the wrath of the whole world raining down on them just as Toby’s song had predicted (see lines 31 and 32).

Toby Keith’s message has enthusiastically rallied most Americans, particularly the country music listener. From my experience, the country music listener tends to be very patriotic. Even though many possess a redneck image, the fact that they are willing to defend our country makes them an invaluable member of society. The rhetoric of “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue” encouraged many young men and women to join the U.S military forces. I personally know several teenagers from my rural hometown who were inspired to join the National Guard partly as a result of Toby Keith’s “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue”. The timing, topic and his ability to use effective forms of rhetoric has made Toby Keith millions of dollars with this song.

Toby Keith has done a masterful job at rallying the patriotism spirit of the American people and no matter what side of the political fence you are on, all true Americans would have to agree with every word in “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue”. This song is a classic because it will stand the test of time. Most importantly, it makes us proud and confident that we are Americans. Since 9/11 and the relief of “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue” in 2002, patriotism has decline and American citizens are even now questioning our involvement in the Iraq war. Toby Keith should revive the patriotic spirit of Americans with another outstanding, rhetorical song about the Red, White and Blue.