When I think of "America the Beautiful" I think of memories of the 4th of July. The summer heat and air, the smell of a grill cooking burgers and hot dogs, and sitting in wonderment as the fireworks burst in the night sky. The words of the song paint a pastel picture of the geography of our beautiful country, and of those who fought and died to preserve it. So often we think of the song in only this way, but for me, and I'm sure for so many Americans, the words also take us back to our childhood or of past holidays spent with those closest to us. Our family, friends, neighbors, and our fellow countrymen.

—Blane Howard, singer/songwriter

You might be wondering who the terrific voice singing most of AMERICA THE BEAUTIFUL in the film is. We were honored to have Blane Howard perform for us. Here’s what his website says about him:

Independent country recording artist Blane Howard is carving out his own path in the music industry. Though based in Nashville, this Arkansas artist’s musical journey takes him all over the country.  A 3-time Arkansas CMA Male Vocalist of the Year winner (including 2023), Howard embraces his unique style of country, modern traditional, mixing the authenticity of the 90s with the contemporary edge of today!  His relatable lyrics, powerful vocals, and entertaining shows are winning him fans around the world.

Blane also performs musical pieces for his favorite football team, the Kansas City Chiefs.

Check out his website here: Home - Blane Howard

And his lovely music video, SAME DIRT, which reflects the values of inclusion that inspired Katharine Lee Bates: Same Dirt