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In your quests for an audacious, patriotic anthem to reverberate across your barbeques on Independence Day, Colt Ford alongside Krizz Kaliko could very well be your go-to.
Ford, with his unmistakable blending of country ballads and rap rhythms, and Kaliko, a hip-hop maestro with his artistry across diverse genres, have converged their talents in a newly formed band, aptly named Hoodbillies. Their opening act, a bold tune labeled ‘Bad A– American,’ sings the praises of the country they love so much.
In a recent heart-to-heart with Fox News Digital, the duo dive into the genesis of the unique tune and their reasoning for writing a celebration of America.
The whole ball started rolling when someone, taken aback by his powerful personality, mentioned that Kaliko ‘entered a room like a true maverick.’ A collaborative spark had been kindling between him and Ford already, and this observation ignited the flame.
As he explains it, ‘A sizeable portion of our collective fan-base, they are strong patriots, to say the least. We both discuss it in our words and music quite a bit.
So, when I considered that, a lightbulb went off. I envisioned that the pivotal guitar riff should evoke a certain feeling. The image of confidently striding in, the epitome of a strong-willed, American citizen – that’s what did it for me.’
Emphasizing his partner’s point, Ford adds, ‘We simply wanted to inject positivity and enjoyment into the mix and proclaim that being a tenacious American isn’t merely acceptable – it’s commendable. It’s perfectly alright to exhibit national pride.
There’s a sense of respect for our flag, our nation. We proudly uphold these sentiments.’
Kaliko, ever the patriot, admitted passionately, ‘Frankly, I wouldn’t pick any other place to call home. Definitely, disparities exist across economic, racial, and cultural lines in certain regions of our country. But that doesn’t diminish the fact that I am fervently proud to be American.’
Expanding on this idea, he added, ‘We must all ponder this as we enjoy our backyard cookouts and observe fireworks illuminating our skies, why not blare an anthem everyone can take to heart? We are free, independent.
We should exalt our status as one of the most influential countries in the world. Let’s celebrate our independence.’
‘Our youth need to understand this message, to know hardships have occurred everywhere,’ Ford solemnly shares. ‘I’ve travelled the world and so has Krizz. If the states are as bad as some argue, then why is there still such an overwhelming desire to reside here?’
Concurring, he emphasized, ‘Look, this nation is where the magic happens. It’s a place of liberty. This freedom has allowed us to create such diverse music and demonstrate that adult men can proudly support one another, radiating positivity and unity and uplifting people’s spirits.
This is the mission that both Krizz and I are passionate about.’
Ford, in his sweeping sentiments about Independence Day, recognized that ‘it’s an occasion where we are not self-celebrating, but honoring each other; those brave men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our prosperity and our endless opportunities to pursue whatever dreams we hold dear.
I harbour no ill will towards anyone with contrasting political ideologies. Every single day, there are brave souls fighting for our right to a multitude of freedoms and opportunities.
Converse and challenge each other, absolutely, but let’s do it respectfully and whilst feeling a profound pride for this great nation. That’s what it’s all about for me.’
Expressing his sentiments about the momentous holiday, Kaliko mused, ‘Freedom, that’s what Independence Day boils down to for me.
The freedom to compose whatever genre of music moves you, the freedom to identify however you please sexually, to practice any beliefs you hold sacred. These are the liberties we uphold.’
He continued, explaining, ‘The Fourth of July epitomizes that — the day we collectively revel in our shared freedoms. It’s a testament to how open-minded our nation genuinely is. And that’s fundamentally what it’s all about.’
So, as the Fourth of July is just around the corner, consider this newly formed partnership of Colt Ford and Krizz Kaliko. Their music can be the rallying call that resonates at your gatherings, underscoring our shared love for this great nation.
Through their unique fusion of country and hip-hop, they create the soundscape of a proudly diverse America. They remind us of the freedom we should celebrate, but also of the unity that makes us strong. It envisions America from the eyes of its underdogs and champions.
Their music does not shy away from the complexities and challenges that the nation faces, yet it embraces them as integral parts of our shared American story. Their anthem, which salutes the bold and audacious spirit of America, reminds us all that our shared prosperity and unity are worth fighting for, and celebrating, this Fourth of July.