A Historic Moment During the 2001 World Series
Just 50 days after the September 11 attacks, American country singer Lee Greenwood delivered a performance that would go down in history. Standing on the field at Yankee Stadium in New York City, just miles from Ground Zero, Greenwood sang his timeless patriotic anthem “God Bless The USA” to a stadium filled with grieving fans and millions watching at home
It was October 31, 2001—Game 4 of the World Series between the New York Yankees and the Arizona Diamondbacks. The nation was still reeling, and in that moment, Greenwood’s voice echoed like a message of hope and unity. Dressed in a jacket patterned after the American flag, he reminded Americans that even in the darkest hour, patriotism and resilience would prevail.
The Story Behind “God Bless The USA”
Lee Greenwood wrote “God Bless The USA” in 1983 during a long tour through the American South. Between shows in Arkansas and Texas, he sat on his tour bus and composed the lyrics that would become one of the most enduring patriotic songs in American music history.
At the time, Greenwood was touring with other country legends like George Strait, Reba McEntire, The Oak Ridge Boys, and Barbara Mandrell. Though he was known for romantic country ballads, Greenwood felt compelled to write a song about his love for his country. As he later recalled in an interview, “It wasn’t written to be a hit—it was just something I believed in.”
The song was included on his 1984 album You’ve Got A Good Love Comin’, and though it was not originally intended as a single, his record label encouraged him to release it. The gamble paid off—“God Bless The USA” reached #7 on the Billboard country chart and was later played at the 1984 Republican National Convention, where President Ronald Reagan and First Lady Nancy Reagan were in attendance.
The Song’s Resurgence After 9/11
Seventeen years after its release, the tragic events of September 11, 2001, gave the song new life. As the nation searched for comfort and unity, “God Bless The USA” once again climbed the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at #16.
By 2024, the song had been certified 2x Platinum by the RIAA, signifying over two million copies sold in the United States alone. It is widely considered one of the most iconic patriotic songs ever written and is frequently performed at political rallies, sporting events, Independence Day celebrations, and military ceremonies.
A Voice of Unity in a Time of National Grief
Greenwood’s performance at Yankee Stadium was more than a musical appearance—it was a spiritual moment. With the Twin Towers still smoldering in memory, the crowd stood united in silence and tears as Greenwood’s voice carried across the field.
This wasn’t just a performance. It was a national healing moment—one that brought Americans together during one of the most difficult times in recent history.
Watch Lee Greenwood Perform “God Bless The USA” at Yankee Stadium
Video Below – Relive this unforgettable moment in American history.