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The Story Behind the Song radio show offered a brief dramatization of many popular song standards that truly reflect our Nations heritage since the days of it’s beginning. Though in the climate of today’s society, it may be hard to believe that our culture has shifted so much, and in the past 50 years, drifted away from what it had been for the previous 180 or so. Technology and progress are wonderful things, but standards of social behavior, ethics, and morality are far below where they could be. Sorry for sounding like a grumpy old man in that last statement, so…
I hope you have a Happy 4th of July, and enjoy the day, complete with plenty of fun in the sun and fireworks. And enjoy the fun history lesson that is presented in today’s show.
First Feature: Episode 1: The Star Spangled Banner.
You may know that Francis Scot Key wrote the famous lyrics to our National Anthem, but do you know how the song really came about? Listen to learn about John Skinner, Brittish General George Colburn, and the prisoner of war that was to be rescued. Or as enforced guests, as General Colburn preferred to put it. Learn about Fort MacHenry, and the battle that took place there. Discover and relive the raging battle that inspired the lyrics, and how the humble words of Francis Scot Keywent from scribbled words on paper to National fame. Includes a performance of the first verse of the song, so get ready to stand up, take off your hat, and put your hand over your heart and celebrate the 4th of July properly.
Second Feature: Episode 13 Yankee Doodle.
Out of the struggles of the conflicts between peoples and nations, there have arisen songs. Springing from the very root of war, as if to soothe the shattered nerve and spirits of those who fight on the battlefield and those who remain on the homefront. One song which has remained to this day that came from America’s Revolutionary War is the one in this feature. Learn facts about how the song came to be, and some of the myths that remain unknown that have to do with the song. Join forces with George Washington, Patrick Henry, John Adams, and Samuel Adams as they do their patriotic service to the yet unborn United States of America. The newly appointed Commander of the Contenintal Army rides with his men off to battle, and a verse of the familiar tune is performed. Grabv your fife and drum and march along as you join in.
Bonus Track:
Johnny Horton. Battle of New Orleans.
PS: With all the flag waving, patriotic sentiment that the American Independence Day represents, it is also worthy to mention that through the more than 200 years of history since the hostilities with Great Brittain, that we have become close allies. So just in case any friends from the UK are listening to the show, I hope it doesn’t sound like tempers are still running hot. Instead, a person might substitute the enemy in the dramas, songs, and all for any modern or potential foe that might care to take on the United States to challenge the hard won liberties we have come to enjoy.
Whew, that’s enough soap box chatter from me for one day. Enjoy.
