15 Songs You Need to Play at Your Independence Day BBQ ...

1. Born in the U.S. a by Bruce Springsteen

A classic '80s rock ballad perfect for the 4th of July! Springsteen originally wrote this song as an anti-Vietnam war song but the lyrics are simply incredible and very uplifting. I used to love to dance to this song as a kid and it can also serve as a great workout song. But more importantly, it makes flipping burgers and listening to your in-laws a little less boring. Don’t forget to include this one on your playlist of songs for your 4th of July barbecue.

2. Alive by Pearl Jam

I am a huge Pearl Jam fan and I know ladies who grew up in the '90s gush every time they hear this awesome band on the radio. “Alive” must be included on your playlist of songs for your 4th of July barbecue simply because it is just an amazing, upbeat rock song that’s always fun to share with party guests. When I hear Pearl Jam in the summer sun with a cold beer and hot dog in hand, I think life just can’t get any better than this.

3. Moondance by Van Morrison

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I don’t think I can listen to this song without smiling. I especially love listening to it when the moon is out on beautiful warm summer nights. This is a great song for couples and at the same time a catchy family song, which is why it rightfully deserves a place on your 4th of July playlist. Van Morrison has a wide range of hits and musical talents; "Moondance" includes big band, jazz and classic rock influences that will make you want to get up and dance with your barbecue guests.

4. My Baby Just Cares for Me by Nina Simone

Obviously an important part of having a 4th of July barbecue is the barbecuing part and this is an awesome song to listen to while cooking. Nina Simone’s soothing and fun voice will have your kids dancing and helping out at the same time. Some would say this song is outdated and belongs in a 1950's kitchen commercial but I beg to differ, considering that Nina Simone is a renowned music artist known for her timeless voice. This song surely belongs at 4th of July barbecue because it will probably even put a smile on the faces of some of the older, cranky guests.

5. All Right Now by Free

Okay, maybe this band is from the very country we Americans are celebrating our independence from, but bear with me! “All Right Now” has a smashing mix of electric guitar solos and those feel-good lyrics everyone wants to hear on 4th of July. Long live Rock n’ Roll!

6. 50 Ways to Say Goodbye by Train

I had the pleasure of seeing Train in concert in Central Park last year and when they played this song, the entire crowd just erupted in dance and cheer. Although it is about a guy coming up with excuses to tell his friends about what happened to his girlfriend who recently broke up with him, it has such an optimistic melody and I love Pat Monahan’s voice! I tell my friends I would buy a record that had him singing the ABCs, that’s how amazing his voice is. I know I included a lot of oldies in this list, so if you are looking for something more current that both you and your teenagers can listen to, this is it.

7. Independence Day by Martina McBride

This woman is a role model for mothers and country musicians as far as I’m concerned. This beautiful song will not only make you proud to be an American, but it emphasizes the importance of family, mothers and daughters, and community. And after all, isn’t that what 4th of July barbecues are all about? Coming together around some great food, drinks, conversation, and remembering the freedoms we should all be thankful for on Independence Day.

8. Party in the U.S.a. by Miley Cyrus

This is a fun, breezy song that you can't help but dance to! Get everyone at your BBQ in the mood to boogie and sing along with this infectious pop song. Perfect for the tweens, teens, and even adults. Just don't let anyone start a twerking contest!

9. American Girl by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers

I love Tom Petty's music and this is one of my favorites.Did you know that this song was featured in classics like Fast Times at Ridgemont High and even The Silence of the Lambs? A great song to play no matter what the occasion!

10. American Woman by Lenny Kravitz

This song was originally recorded by Canadian rock band Guess Who, but you might know it best covered by rock star Lenny Kravitz. This video just screams summer and I have no doubt that this song will get all of your guests in the rock n' roll mood!

11. Made in the U.S.a. by Demi Lovato

Although this is technically a love song, it's another pop track that's fun to sing along to and get everyone in the party mood. Plus, how can you not love listening to Demi's silky and soulful voice?

12. American Badass by Kid Rock

Bring back this party staple from the 2000s! The marriage of rap and metal worked beautifully in this track and the fact that it features Metallica's "Sad but True" just makes it that much more rock and bad ass!

13. American Pie by Don McLean

No 4th of July party soundtrack would be complete without Don McLean's American Pie. This song is a true classic and just about everyone knows the lyrics so it's perfect for a sing along or an impromptu dance session.

14. Courtesy of the Red White and Blue by Toby Keith

If you like country, you'll know Toby Keith is one of the BIGGEST supporters of the military, so when this song was released, it didn't really surprise anyone. It's touching yet has such a fun tone to it you can't help but sing along at your BBQ.

15. American Saturday Night by Brad Paisley

This song is the epitome of small town America and it's awesome! It's cute, catchy, and something you're definitely going to want to play at your summer party.

Can you think of a song you are planning to include on your list of songs for your 4th of July barbecue that you don’t see here? What do you like best about 4th of July barbecues? Is it the fun-filled music? Feel free to share your thoughts!

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