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These songs and albums reflect the emotional landscape of

Bicentennial Summer 

- a mix of joy, confusion, patriotism, and family tension. From AM radio hits to

vinyl favorites, each track helps paint the soundscape of Mary’s journey -

and that of her father, Ralph, and her younger twin sisters, Gerri and Jill.​

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🎵 Singles ​​​🎵​

“Afternoon Delight” – Starland Vocal Band
Light, cheeky, and perfect for backseat giggles from Gerri and Jill.

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“Bohemian Rhapsody” – Queen

Dramatic and unpredictable - just like parts of the road trip.

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“Philadelphia Freedom” – Elton John

A flashy anthem of 1976 patriotism, beloved by Ralph.

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“Take It to the Limit” – Eagles
Reflects Ralph’s pushing of boundaries - and Mary’s emotional limits.

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“Saturday in the Park” – Chicago
Brass-forward and full of Mary’s musical spirit.

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“Right Back Where We Started From” – Maxine Nightingale
Bouncy and deceptively cheerful, echoing the trip’s circularity.

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“Convoy” – C.W. McCall
Pure 1970's Americana - Ralph would’ve loved it.

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“Let Your Love Flow” – Bellamy Brothers
Open-hearted and warm - a rare moment of peace.

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“Tonight’s the Night (Gonna Be Alright)” – Rod Stewart
Suggestive and awkward for a kid stuck between childhood and adolescence.

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“Welcome Back” – John Sebastian
A sweet and nostalgic favorite of the twins, echoing the longing to return.

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💿 Albums 💿​

Now and Then – The Carpenters
A blend of melancholy and nostalgia - especially side two’s radio medley.

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The Holy Bible: Old Testament – The Statler Brothers
Ralph’s oddball favorite, both comforting and comical.