Danny Gokey - My America (I Still Believe) Lyrics
Lyrics
I hear them say our country's far too gone
Even claim, our fathers got it wrong
But I won't give up on us and I'll take a stand
Cause we can overcome, this is not the end
I still believe in us, oh America
You're still the land I love though a little bruised up
Stars and Stripes still cry Liberty
Over evil over tyranny
Blood poured out for our freedom
Sacrificed it all for this nation
I still believe in us
My America
Our history is full of bravery
Heroes fought for our equality
Now is the time to make peace and forgive our faults
Because United we stand or divided we will fall
I still believe in us, my America
You're still the land I love though a little bruised up
Stars and Stripes still cry Liberty
Over evil over tyranny
Blood poured out for our freedom
Sacrificed it all for this nation
I still believe in us
America! America!
God shed His grace on thee
And crown thy good with brotherhood
From sea to shining sea
I'll always believe in us, my America
This is the land I love but we gotta heal up
Lady Liberty will always be
A sign of hope unto the refugee
The immigrant can find escape
From oppression to a better place
I still believe in us
I still believe in us
I still believe in us
My America, our America
Video
Danny Gokey - My America (Official Music Video)
Meaning & Inspiration
Danny Gokey's song, "My America (I Still Believe)," released with its accompanying video on June 23, 2023, presents a powerful declaration of enduring faith in the United States. Against a backdrop of societal division and doubt often voiced regarding the nation's direction and past, the song serves as a counter-narrative, urging a stance of belief and perseverance. It acknowledges the present challenges and the perception that the country is facing significant difficulties, but firmly rejects the idea of giving up on its future.
The lyrics convey a deep, unwavering love for America, describing it as a land "bruised up" but still cherished. Central to the song's message is the reaffirmation of foundational American ideals, symbolized by the Stars and Stripes crying "Liberty" over oppression. The sacrifice of those who fought for freedom is honored, highlighting the cost paid for the nation's existence and its core principles. The song also underscores the importance of unity and forgiveness, presenting them as essential steps for overcoming current divisions, echoing the sentiment that collective strength is vital.
Further exploring the nation's identity, the song points to Lady Liberty as an enduring symbol of hope, particularly for those seeking refuge. It portrays America as a place where immigrants can escape oppression and find a better life, reinforcing the historical role of the United States as a land of opportunity and sanctuary. The inclusion of lines from "America the Beautiful," specifically invoking God's grace and the concept of brotherhood from "sea to shining sea," weaves a spiritual thread through the message, suggesting a reliance on divine blessing and a call for national harmony.
Drawing from the artist's background, the song's themes resonate with various biblical concepts. The message of holding onto hope and belief in the face of significant challenges aligns with scriptural encouragement to persevere through trials and maintain faith. The call for unity, forgiveness, and brotherhood reflects biblical principles emphasizing love for one's neighbor and the importance of reconciliation. Furthermore, the portrayal of the nation as a place of refuge for the oppressed connects with biblical mandates to care for the foreigner and the vulnerable in society. The prayer for God's grace underscores a recognition of dependence on divine favor for healing and well-being.
Ultimately, "My America (I Still Believe)" stands as an inspirational anthem intended to uplift spirits and encourage a renewed sense of patriotism rooted in hope and action. It calls listeners to look beyond cynicism and actively participate in the process of healing and strengthening the nation. The song serves as a reminder of America's core values, its history of overcoming adversity, and the potential for unity and a brighter future through continued belief and collective effort.