"With two hooks, three rhythm scans and some of the most ingenious wordplay I've ever heard," Chesney said in a press release, "this song's unlike anything I've ever heard. The second Shane [McAnally] played 'American Kids' for me, I knew I was going to cut it. In fact, I kinda wondered why he hadn't played it for me sooner."

"American Kids" is an upbeat song that aims to give insight into what drives the spirit and soul of today's younger generations. In the lyrics, the song references anthems like "Little Pink Houses.," "Born in the USA" and "The Cover of the Rolling Stone." The song winds up with the chorus that they're "a little messed up but we're all alright."