There are the “Star-Spangled Banner,” “ America the Beautiful” and “God Bless America” — all patriotic songs that celebrate America.

Happy Fourth of July, and God Bless America! Myra Adams is a political and religious opinion writer who served on the creative team of two Republican presidential campaigns, in 2004 and 2008.

From sea to shining sea, music has defined how Americans see themselves -- and their country. On the Fourth of July, these songs and artists have captured the essence of the United States.