"...whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness." -From the United States Declaration of Independence, adopted on July 4, 1776
As we celebrate another Independence Day in America I wanted to create a July 4th related playlist. But instead of doing the traditional collection of overtures reserved for fireworks displays I thought I would look more to the spirit of the original event.
As you can see in the quote above from the Declaration of Independence the birth of America hinged on braking the chains of the crown. In music the independent musician could be compared to those early colonies and the major labels could represent British rule.
As the cost to record music has been reduced drastically by technology and the Internet has enabled instant and free distribution of musical works, the independent musician has acquired the tools to make a living without the help of major labels. This is something that was virtually impossible previously. Truly, a new world.
As independents began to break free and take on a DIY attitude a new genre of music was penned. And although "indie" music has now taken a path to the mainstream just as "alternative" music did in the 80s, the spirit of its birth is clear.
For this "independents day" playlist I have chosen songs by indie bands that refer to July 4th in someway.
Happy birthday America!
The Independents Day Playlist
1. Independence Day - Elliott Smith
2. Jesus The Mexican Boy - Iron & Wine
3. You Got Yr. Cherry Bomb - Spoon
4. Fourth Of July - Galaxie 500
6. Naked If I Want To - Cat Power
9. Bottle Rocket - The Go! Team
10. Independence Day - Ani DiFranco