Essential American songs of the last 250 years

To mark the United States' bicentennial, Sunday Morning surveyed a diverse group of influential figures about the country's most significant songs, resulting in the "Essential American Songbook." With contributions from 90 individuals, including celebrities like Jason Alexander and Ken Burns, the list features 250 songs that reflect the nation's cultural and historical journey. This project underscores the powerful role music plays in shaping and capturing the American identity, offering insight into how these melodies resonate across generations.