John Rich of Big & Rich is raisin' support for John McCain

The 2008 presidential campaign is going country.

Singer/songwriter and acclaimed producer John Rich, of the multi-platinum country duo Big & Rich, has released an original anthem in support of Republican presidential candidate Senator John McCain.

Rich will perform "Raisin' McCain" for the first time publicly later today, August 1, when he hosts the Country First Concert in Panama City, FL, which features a guest appearance by the Arizona senator. "Raisin' McCain" is also available to the public for free download at JohnRich.com.

"Senator John McCain is a man of extraordinary integrity who I believe has, and will always, put our country first," said Rich in a statement. "Writing and recording 'Raisin' McCain' is my contribution to his campaign. It's my hope that this song will unite young conservatives, rally support and excitement for our Republican presidential candidate, and ultimately inspire people to vote."

Rich is not the first musician to mix chords with the campaign trail. Democratic presidential candidate Senator Barack Obama has also gained support from members of the music community. Performers like Bruce Springsteen and Bob Dylan have announced their support for the Illinois candidate, while groups such as Arcade Fire and The Decemberists have held benefit concerts for the Illinois senator.

Rich wrote the music and lyrics to "Raisin' McCain" as a "fight song" to energize Americans and declare his support for the candidate. The song celebrates McCain's maverick spirit, proclaiming, "Well we're all just raisin' McCain/ Everywhere across the USA/ You can get on the train or get out of the way/ We're all just raisin' McCain."

Later, Rich's lyrics assert, "Now we've got a real man with an American plan/ We're going to put him in the big White House."

"As a songwriter, my job is about turning phrases that energize and engage people across the country," says Rich. "The words to 'Raisin' McCain' are my gift to the campaign, and the song is my gift to America."