Released in November 1970, 'Hey America' is a concept album addressing social and patriotic themes from an African American perspective. The title track, 'Hey America', was a single that reached number 13 on Billboard's R&B chart, in which Brown criticizes racial inequality while expressing hope for the country.
The album includes covers of classics such as 'America the Beautiful' and The Impressions' 'This Is My Country', as well as original songs. The recording featured The J.B.'s, though exact session musician details are not fully documented. Production was handled by Brown himself.
Although not one of Brown's best-selling albums, 'Hey America' is notable for its politically conscious lyrical content and for being one of the first funk records to openly incorporate themes of national pride from a critical perspective. The cover shows Brown with an American flag in the background.