On September 11, 2001, two commercial airplanes were deliberately flown into the twin towers of the World Trade Center in New York City, causing catastrophic destruction. About thirty minutes later, a third plane struck the Pentagon, the headquarters of the U.S. Department of Defense, in Washington, D.C. These coordinated terrorist attacks, carried out by the extremist group al-Qaeda, resulted in nearly 3,000 deaths and had profound impacts on global politics, security, and culture. The events of that day reshaped international relations and led to significant changes in U.S. foreign and domestic policies. In the years following the attacks, American musicians, particularly those from New York, responded to the tragedy through their art. Music became a powerful medium for processing grief, expressing solidarity, and commemorating the lives lost. From solemn memorials to anthems of resilience, the music of this period reflected the collective emotional landscape of a nation in mourning and transformation. Jean-Marie Pottier, a journalist and author of the book Ground Zero: A Musical History of September 11, explores how the attacks influenced the American music scene. Pottier notes that the events of 9/11 inspired a wave of new compositions, from orchestral pieces to rock and pop songs, many of which were created in the immediate aftermath of the attacks. These works often incorporated themes of loss, hope, and unity, resonating with audiences across the country. The legacy of September 11 continues to be felt in American music, with annual commemorations and ongoing artistic reflections. Pottier’s work highlights how the tragedy not only changed the course of history but also left a lasting imprint on cultural expression, particularly in the music of New York, which was at the heart of the events. Through song, the nation has found a way to remember, heal, and reaffirm its values.