John Oliver proposed a new song for U.S. naturalization ceremonies on the October 27, 2024 episode of Last Week Tonight with John Oliver, and Will Ferrell performed it in a satirical music video. It was a television comedy segment—not an adopted USCIS song or a documented change to ceremony policy.
What song did Will Ferrell perform?
Ferrell performed a country-style song presented as an alternative to Lee Greenwood’s “God Bless the USA.” Oliver’s segment framed the proposal as a way to welcome new citizens while recognizing that the country has difficult realities as well as ideals to celebrate. TheWrap and TV Insider reported on the segment and Ferrell’s performance on October 28, 2024.
The performance was part of a satirical television segment, not evidence of a serious government commission or formal submission. TheWrap’s account describes the proposed song’s intended contrast with “God Bless the USA” and its connection to the naturalization process (TheWrap; TV Insider).
Did USCIS adopt the song?
No adoption is established by the reporting on the segment or by current USCIS administrative ceremony guidance. USCIS guidance includes playing the national anthem as a program element and permits field offices to add appropriate musical selections approved for the ceremony presentation. It does not identify Ferrell’s song as an official selection (USCIS Policy Manual, Chapter 5).
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The distinction is straightforward: Oliver and Ferrell offered a comic proposal on television; USCIS guidance describes what may happen in government ceremonies. The segment should not be described as a policy announcement or an actual replacement of “God Bless the USA.”
What music is played at naturalization ceremonies?
USCIS administrative guidance lists the national anthem among ceremony program elements and allows approved additional musical selections. It also says applicants are not required to stand or sing when music is played. Local ceremony programs may therefore include music beyond the anthem, but the guidance does not make Oliver’s proposal part of that program.
Federal court material describes naturalization ceremonies as public events that may feature patriotic songs or live musical performances. It also presents the occasion as a civic milestone centered on the Oath and the responsibilities of citizenship, including voting and jury service (Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts, Naturalization Ceremonies).
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Why did Oliver propose an alternative?
The segment questioned the use of “God Bless the USA” at naturalization ceremonies and used the proposed replacement to comment on how the country welcomes new citizens. TheWrap characterized the idea as celebrating both the country and the naturalization process while acknowledging difficult realities. Ferrell’s performance delivered that argument through comedy rather than presenting a formal civic or government statement.
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