“Spirit of America” – Cadillac James & Friends

“Spirit of America”
Cadillac James & Friends

H/F Records 2010

Despite the fact that the tragic events of September 11, 2001 were nation-changing, few gospel songs have been written about or dedicated to the event.  Gospel Fab lists a couple, and Kirk Franklin wrote “Are You Listening,” the song recently recorded by Artists United for Haiti, as a personal response to the attacks.

So good for “Cadillac James” Cotton, whose recent single, “Spirit of America,” remembers that awful day and the strength the country discovered within as a result.  Cadillac is not alone on the recording; it’s actually an all-in Cotton Family presentation, with a chorus of family members and Lewis Cotton and the late Teresa (Faye) Cotton contributing lead vocals. 

Unlike some patriotic paeans, “Spirit of America” does not simplify the notion of patriotism, nor does it glorify the act of retaliation.  Rather, it recalls the sorrow and heartbreak that the event engenered and iterates the country’s willingness to stand united should such an attack happen again.  Cadillac and Company’s interpolation of “God Bless America” at the end is not cliche but soulful and touching.