Introduction
“Only In America” is a patriotic country anthem recorded by the iconic duo Brooks & Dunn. Released in June 2001 as the second single from their album Steers & Stripes, the song was co-written by Kix Brooks, Don Cook, and Ronnie Rogers. Its release came just months before the tragic events of September 11, 2001, giving the song a profound and enduring relevance in American culture.
Musically, “Only In America” blends traditional country instrumentation with a powerful and uplifting message. Lyrically, it celebrates the American dream — the idea that no matter where someone comes from, they have the freedom and opportunity to pursue their goals. The song paints vivid scenes of everyday American life: a school bus driver heading to work, a newlywed couple starting out, and dreamers in small towns across the nation. The chorus proudly proclaims that “only in America” do such possibilities exist, making it a tribute not just to patriotism, but to hope and resilience.
Following the events of 9/11, the song took on even deeper meaning. It was widely played at patriotic events, memorial services, and rallies, and became an unofficial anthem of American unity and pride. Over the years, it has been used in numerous political campaigns and events across the political spectrum — a rare case of a country song that resonated with Americans regardless of affiliation.
“Only In America” remains one of Brooks & Dunn’s most recognizable and impactful songs. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its universal message and the duo’s ability to capture the spirit of a nation through music. The official video highlights scenes of American life and unity, reinforcing the themes that have made the song a beloved classic.
Video
Lyric
[Verse 1]
Sun comin’ up over New York City
School bus driver in a traffic jam
Starin’ at the faces in her rearview mirror
Looking at the promise of the Promised Land
One kid dreams of fame and fortune
One kid helps pay the rent
One could end up goin’ to prison
One just might be president
[Chorus]
Only in America
Dreamin’ in red, white, and blue
Only in America
Where we dream as big as we want to
We all get a chance
Everybody gets to dance
Only in America
[Verse 2]
Sun goin’ down on an LA freeway
Newlyweds in the back of a limousine
A welder’s son and a banker’s daughter
All they want is everything
She came out here to be an actress
He was the singer in a band
They just might go back to Oklahoma
And talk about the stars they could have been
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[Chorus]
Only in America
Dreamin’ in red, white, and blue
Only in America
Where we dream as big as we want to
And we all get a chance
Everybody gets to dance
Only in America
[Instrumental Break]
[Chorus]
Only in America
Where we dream in red, white, and blue
Only in America
Where we dream as big as we want to
We all get a chance
Everybody gets to dance
Only in America
Yeah, only in America
(Only in America)
Where we dream in red, white, and blue
Yeah, we dream as big as we want to
(Only in America)
America (Only in America)