America250, the nonpartisan organization tasked by Congress with leading the commemoration of the United States' 250th anniversary, has launched "America's Soundtrack." This new national music collection aims to reflect the diverse musical traditions that have shaped the nation. The initiative will roll out additional artists and tracks throughout 2026, leading up to America250’s Fourth of July programming. The executive producer for "America's Soundtrack" is multi-Grammy Award winner Emilio Estefan.
The initial release from "America's Soundtrack" features three distinct works. These include "America" by Gloria and Emilio Estefan, which is now widely available for the first time; "American Promise," a newly commissioned orchestral piece by composer Karen LeFrak; and a powerful choral rendition of "Battle Hymn of the Republic" performed by The Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square. All three tracks became available on YouTube on March 5, 2026.
"America," originally introduced in 2015, reflects the Estefans’ gratitude for the freedoms and opportunities in the U.S. as Cuban immigrants. "American Promise," a contemporary orchestral piece commissioned by the National Symphony Orchestra, is described as a musical portrait of unity and faith in the American dream. Its world premiere was performed by the Miami Symphony Orchestra on March 8, with the recording completed by the London Symphony Orchestra. The Tabernacle Choir's "Battle Hymn of the Republic" highlights music's role in uniting the nation. CBS News is also compiling an "Essential American Songbook" of 250 songs with contributions from 90 notable Americans for the 250th birthday.
