American Ride, released in 2009, is a country music song by the American singer-songwriter Toby Keith. It served as the title track for Keith’s thirteenth studio album of the same name. While not credited as a songwriter on this particular track, Keith is known for co-writing many of his songs, and has established himself as a major figure in country music.

American Ride was not written by Keith himself, but by songwriters Dave Pahanish and Joe West. Keith however, remained involved in the project as the producer alongside Don Cook. Released in July of 2009, American Ride became the first single from the album. It achieved significant commercial success, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart by October 10th, 2009, and holding that position for five weeks. The song’s popularity extended beyond the country music genre, achieving a respectable number 24 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, demonstrating its crossover appeal.

American Ride is considered a heartland rock anthem, a subgenre of country music that often features themes of patriotism, working-class values, and a celebration of rural American life. The song’s lyrics evoke imagery of small-town America, with its hardworking people, traditional values, and unwavering spirit. This theme of resilience resonated with many Americans following the September 11th terrorist attacks, and American Ride unofficially became an anthem of patriotism and perseverance in the years that followed.

American Ride stands as a significant entry in Toby Keith’s discography, not only for its commercial success but also for its cultural impact. The song remains a popular choice for fans of Keith’s music and country music in general, and continues to be a reminder of the themes of patriotism and small-town values that resonate with many Americans.

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