“This Land is Your Land” is a timeless folk song with lyrics and music written by American folk singer Woody Guthrie. As a response to Guthrie’s feelings of both love for his country and concern about the socio-economic disparities he observed during the Great Depression. The song’s lyrics eloquently capture a sense of unity, inclusivity, and connection to the American landscape. With its memorable melody and evocative verses, “This Land is Your Land” has become an enduring anthem that resonates with people from all walks of life, celebrating the beauty of the United States while also addressing the importance of social justice and equality. The song’s enduring popularity and significance continue to make it a symbol of American folk music and a reflection of Guthrie’s commitment to storytelling through music.
Released in 1940
This Land is Your Land Lyrics:
This land is your land, and this land is my land
From California to the New York island
From the Redwood Forest to the Gulf Stream waters
This land was made for you and me
As I went walking that ribbon of highway
And I saw above me that endless skyway
I saw below me that golden valley
This land was made for you and me
I roamed and rambled, and I’ve followed my footsteps
To the sparkling sands of her diamond deserts
All around me, a voice was sounding
This land was made for you and me
There was a big, high wall there that tried to stop me
A sign was painted said “Private Property”
But on the backside, it didn’t say nothing
This land was made for you and me
When the sun come shining, then I was strolling
And the wheat fields waving, and the dust clouds rolling
The voice was chanting as the fog was lifting
This land was made for you and me
This land is your land, and this land is my land
From California to the New York island
From the Redwood Forest to the Gulf Stream waters
This land was made for you and me