Jon Meacham, Tim McGraw explore American history in song

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Country star Tim McGraw and Pulitzer Prize-winning historian Jon Meacham are friends and neighbors with a shared love of history and music. The two have teamed up to write "Songs of America: Patriotism, Protest and the Music That Made a Nation," out on Tuesday, and are going on a book tour.

McGraw said he asked Meacham if he would consider writing about the impact music has had on American politics. Music reflects the conflicts of the times, such as war or political movements, Meacham said.

In the book, McGraw reflects on political songs, such as “Born In the U.S.A.,” from his viewpoint as an artist; Meacham adds the historical context and stories behind the songs.