In 1949, twelve nations—Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Iceland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, the United Kingdom, and the United States—founded the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), a military alliance that has since grown to include 30 countries. At ComposeMD, I prefer to talk about music rather than humans killing each other based on manufactured differences. As such, here are the 10 greatest songs that the original NATO members have produced. You may notice that not all members are represented, with France being the most notable omission—as John Lennon once said, French rock…it’s a bit like English wine. And you may notice that the US is overrepresented, because—let’s be honest—the US runs NATO.
“Alors On Danse” by Stromae
With NATO headquartered in Brussels, getting Belgium on the list was a must. This tune by Stromae also softens the blow of having excluded France, as the Belgian artist sings in French. Just don’t tell the Flemish speakers in Belgium—it’s one of those countries where they bicker about language a lot.
“Army of Me” by Björk
Iceland doesn’t actually have an army, but it does have Björk singing about one.
“Take On Me” by a-ha
In addition to dominating the Winter Olympics, Norway has gifted the world with hits like this one.
“Winter” from The Four Seasons by Antonio Vivaldi
Vivaldi might have predated NATO by a few centuries, but it nonetheless would have been tough to leave out this jam by the Italian composer. The interpretation shown here features Norwegian violinist Mari Samuelsen, exhibiting just how collaborative NATO can be.
“Take Me Into Your Skin” by Trentemøller
Where the weather is suboptimal, you’re sure to find good music. As this electronic track shows, Denmark is no exception.
“Tom Sawyer” by Rush
It’s only fitting that the signature song of one of Canada’s iconic bands references a work of American literature. (Sorry, Canada.)
“Stairway to Heaven” by Led Zeppelin
Trying to pick just one song from the UK is an impossible task, though this classic has to be in the conversation.
“Free Bird” by Lynyrd Skynyrd
On to the US. As with the UK, the options are endless, but the pushback here should be limited.
“So What” by Miles Davis
The gold standard of the distinctly American art form.
“Closer” by The Chainsmokers featuring Halsey
If you’ve listened to American radio over the past 20 years, you know this is about the best you’re going to get. The good news is that when it comes to art and culture, the country can export essentially anything.
Disclaimer: This was an unscientific and nonsensical exercise.
