This Ain't No Rag, It's a Flag
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This Ain't No Rag, It's a Flag is a track performed by the American ensemble Charlie Daniels Band, featured as an additional song on their 2001 release Live!. Composed exclusively by Charlie Daniels, it was issued as the sole single from the album in November 2001. The piece serves as a direct artistic response to the September 11 attacks and reached number 33 on the US Country charts, representing Daniels' highest-charting single since 1989's "Simple Man".
Background and writing
The song gained significant attention when CMT prohibited Daniels from performing it during the Country Freedom Concert held in Nashville on October 21, an event aimed at raising funds for the Salvation Army's disaster relief efforts in New York City. Daniels objected to this decision, asserting that if his song was considered offensive, then his presence should be equally objectionable. In an interview with Billboard Magazine, he expressed that the impact of September 11 was profound and that many people had encouraged him to create a song addressing the tragedy.
Critical reception
Deborah Evans Price from Billboard commended the song, describing it as "much more stirring than racist," emphasizing its patriotic tone and resolve to confront terrorism. She acknowledged that although some listeners might find it controversial, its message of national pride corresponds with ongoing rescue and recovery initiatives.
Chart performance
"This Ain't No Rag, It's a Flag" entered the U.S. Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart at position 51 during the week of November 10, 2001, ultimately climbing to a peak of number 33.
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