There’s something about hearing a song you love for the first time. Whether it be lyrics that touch your soul, a beat that hits your chest, or a melody that becomes an earworm for weeks, music can reach us in a way unlike any other media. But maybe not everyone can be a Mozart/Bob Dylan/Jay-Z. Creating music is hard. Unfortunately, the Space Force song is teaching us this fact all too well. The United States Space Force (USSF) has a new anthem, but don’t expect critical acclaim from Pitchfork any time soon.

More like this:

What's the Story Behind the Space Force Flag?

Unveiling the Brand New Space Force Song

Does the Space Force have a song? Yes, they finally do. In September 2022, Space Force unveiled the official song "Sempra Supra" as the official anthem of the newest branch of the U.S. military. While most Americans have been eyeing the first month of fall for releases from the likes of Ozzy Osbourne, John Legend, Two Door Cinema Club, and more, the USSF has made a release of its own. The song “Semper Supra” debuted at a conference in National Harbor, Maryland, by the Chief of Space Operations, Gen John “Jay” Raymond. Its title was taken from the Space Force motto, “Always Above.” Chief musician of the U.S. Coast Guard Band, Sean Nelson, together with Jamie Teachenor, a member of the U.S. Air Force Band, collaborated on the song. Nelson, who worked on composing the tune, stated, “I went for it and I did what I thought was going to be the most exciting kind of sounds.” Teachenor took the lead in writing the Space Force song lyrics, adding, “I wanted to make sure that everything that was in the song would adequately represent all the capabilities that our Space Force is involved with and make sure I didn’t mess up on the mission.”

“Semper Supra” May Need a Remix

Writing the U.S. Space Force song is a great way to show patriotism and inspire others. Unfortunately, the early criticisms are in, and they are abundant. The United States Space Force song was never a threat to taking down “Old Town Road” as the longest-running no. 1 song in history, but a kinder reception would’ve probably been preferred. “Semper Supra” has been panned by many, not only from a musical front, describing it as a low-grade, Star Wars-esque tune, but also for its lyrics: "We're the mighty watchful eye Guardians beyond the blue The invisible front line Warfighters brave and true Boldly reaching into space There's no limit to our sky Standing guard both night and day We're the Space Force from on high." It’s obvious that whatever direction the U.S. Space Force goes for, it’ll resemble more of a national anthem feel than the latest banger from Future, but this could still be a place they may want to revisit. The USSF spends its time protecting American interests in space with a focus in communications. There may have been a miscommunication, however, on the final mix.

The Space Force Theme Song Just the Latest Image Gaffe

There were always going to be comparisons between the USSF, Star Wars, Star Trek, and virtually any other space-based sci-fi franchise. A prominent example came to life when the new Space Force uniforms were mocked by Star Wars fans. It’s always important to remember that the Guardians are defending our country, but criticisms will still find their way to the youngest branch of the American Armed Forces. Yesterday, it was the uniforms and other forms of imagery; today, it’s the Space Force anthem. Tomorrow, who knows? The Internet pulls no punches, and this is no exception. Thankfully, the primary function of Guardians isn’t to write a hit on the top 40s, but rather to defend American interests in space, on Earth, and in cyberspace. The Space Force song may not be the most memorable track, but the USSF continues to leave an impact on the present and future of communications, space exploration, and commerce.

Read next:

Why Won't Space Force Bases Be Called Garrisons Anymore? 

Image: Eric R. Dietrich/U.S. Air Force