On the 4th of July, most Americans’ musical thoughts turn to John Philip Sousa — AKA “The March King.”

However, there is another composer of marches that could justifiably have claims to the same title:  Karl L. King.

He was so well-regarded by his peers that composer Henry Fillmore actually re-titled one of his own marches “King Karl King” in honor of his friend and colleague.

Though perhaps best known for his “circus marches” (with “Barnum & Bailey’s Favorite” likely being his most popular), Karl King wrote a great number of military and patriotic marches too.  My favorite of these is “Aces of the Air.”

Click HERE to listen to “Aces of the Air” played by, appropriately enough, the U.S. Air Force Heritage of America Band (note:  a new browser window will open).

Alternately, watch the slightly more European-ish take by the Netherland’s Deltaband Vlissingen in the video below.

Happy 4th of July, everyone, and Happy Birthday to the good ol’ US of A, and thank you, King Karl King!!

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Photo credit:  courtesy of http://www.karlking.us