15 Songs About Charlotte

From country to hip-hop, rock to soul, Charlotte has inspired artists across various genres. Some of these musicians have gone on to write about the city itself.

Here are the best songs about Charlotte ever.

Comin’ From Where I’m From by Anthony Hamilton

Song Year: 2003

“Comin’ From Where I’m From” is a soulful R&B song by American singer-songwriter Anthony Hamilton, released in 2003 as the lead single from his second studio album. The song was written by Hamilton and Mark Batson and produced by Batson.

The song's lyrics speak to Hamilton's personal experiences growing up in Charlotte, North Carolina, and the struggles he faced along the way. He sings about his challenges as a young man, including poverty, incarceration, and being estranged from his family.

Charlotte by Young Dolph

Song Year: 2017

This is another contemporary song that has very explicit lyrics. But, it does mention Charlotte, North Carolina, as somewhere the artist is visiting/exploring.

The song is an ode to Charlotte, North Carolina, where Young Dolph has established a strong fan base and often performs. The lyrics describe the rapper's experiences in the city, including his love for the local strip clubs and admiration for the “Queen City's” hustle and energy.

I Love Nascar by Cledus T. Judd

Song Year: 2004

“I Love Nascar” by Cledus T. Judd is about NASCAR, which famously races at Charlotte Motor Speedway and is something that Charlotte is very well-known for.

Judd sings about his love for the sport, describing trophy girls, racer drivers and how the sport puts a smile on people’s faces. The lyrics also touch on some stereotypes of NASCAR fans, such as their love of beer, pickup trucks, and country music.

Charlotte's in North Carolina by Kieth Whitley

Song Year: 1985

“Charlotte's in North Carolina” is a classic country song that tells the story of a man on the road missing his love in Charlotte. The song has become a favorite among traditional country music fans and is often included on playlists and compilations of classic country hits.

Despite Whitley's untimely death in 1989, his music continues to be celebrated and remembered by fans and fellow musicians.

Queen City Slummin’ by Lute

Song Year: 2012

“Queen City Slummin'” is a song by American rapper Lute. The song is an introspective look at Lute's experiences growing up in Charlotte, North Carolina, sometimes called the “Queen City.” The lyrics detail the challenges and hardships of life in the city's poorer neighborhoods and the determination and resilience of those who live there.

Promised Land by Chuck Berry

Song Year: 1964

While not just about Charlotte, this song mentions the city by name and Raleigh, North Carolina. The song's lyrics tell the story of a journey from Norfolk, Virginia, to Los Angeles, California. The narrator describes his travels across the United States, encountering various landmarks and experiences.

The song's “Promised Land” refers to the narrator's hopes and dreams of reaching his destination and achieving success.

Yonder Comes a Freight Train by Laura Cantrell

Song Year: 2002

“Yonder Comes a Freight Train” is another song that mentions Charlotte, North Carolina, by name. The song tells the story of a woman who has traveled across the country by hopping freight trains and hitchhiking, encountering various adventures and challenges.

Despite the allure of the open road, the woman ultimately longs to return to her good man waiting for her at home.

Kissin’ Time by Kiss

Song Year: 1974

“Kissin' Time” is a song by the American rock band Kiss. The song was released as a single in 1974 and was included on their self-titled debut album the same year. The song is not entirely about Charlotte, but it does mention the song in the lyrics.

“Kissin' Time” was written by Bobby Rydell and Bernie Lowe and had previously been a hit for Rydell.

Due West by Kelsey Lu

Song Year:

“Due West” is a soulful song by the American singer-songwriter Kelsey Lu, who grew up in Charlotte, North Carolina. The song reflects on Lu's memories and nostalgia for her hometown as she sings about the familiar streets, landscapes, and people that shaped her early life.

The lyrics also touch on the complexities of identity and belonging as Lu grapples with her mixed heritage and her search for a sense of place.

Charlotte tmw Raleigh by K Suave

Song Year: 2021

“Charlotte tmw Raleigh” is another interesting song that mentions Charlotte, North Carolina by name. Relatively unknown hip-hop artist K Suave wrote the song about time spent in the North Carolina area, mentioning several cities, like Charlotte and Raleigh.

The song’s lyrics are very explicit, so listener discretion is recommended.

Tear Down the House by The Avett Brothers

Song Year: 2008

While this song doesn’t explicitly reference Charlotte, The Avett Brothers are from the Charlotte area and explore concepts of home, family, and change in this well-loved song.

The song's lyrics contain vivid imagery of a home falling apart and a family struggling to hold it together. As a rapidly growing city, Charlotte has experienced these tensions in its own way.

Welcome to Charlotte by JusWaveyTrapBaby featuring Hotboyku and Smurk

Song Year: 2022

“Welcome to Charlotte” is a rap song that serves as an introduction to Charlotte, NC, highlighting the city's vibrant music scene and its status as a cultural hub in the American South.

The lyrics describe the artists' experiences in Charlotte, from performing at local clubs and venues to interacting with fans and fellow musicians. The song's production features a bass-heavy beat and catchy hooks.

New Charlotte by DuRu Tha King

Song Year: 2014

“New Charlotte” is a hip-hop song by the American rapper DuRu Tha King. The song's title references Charlotte, NC, and its lyrics describe the city's music scene, street culture, and sense of community.

The song features a catchy hook and a heavy bass beat, with DuRu Tha King delivering confident and charismatic verses that showcase his flow and lyrical prowess.

Charlotte Is a Great North Carolina City by The Guy Who Sings Songs About Cities & Towns

Song Year: 2019

“Charlotte Is a Great North Carolina City” is a song by The Guy Who Sings Songs About Cities & Towns, an artist known for creating novelty songs about various locations throughout the United States. The song celebrates Charlotte, NC, as a vibrant and diverse city with a rich history and cultural heritage.

The lyrics describe various aspects of Charlotte's character, from its Southern hospitality and friendly people to its sports teams, museums, and landmarks.

Take You Home by Benji Hughes

Song Year: 2016

“Take You Home” is a catchy indie pop song by the American singer-songwriter Benji Hughes, who is based in Charlotte, North Carolina.

The song's upbeat tempo and playful lyrics create a carefree and lighthearted mood. The lyrics describe a romantic encounter and the singer's desire to take his partner home.

Top Songs About Charlotte, Final Thoughts

From the soulful sounds of Anthony Hamilton to the many popular hip-hop/rap songs about Charlotte, North Carolina, the city's music reflects its diverse and vibrant spirit.

These songs capture the essence of Charlotte through the eyes and ears of its musical community. They offer a rich tapestry of stories and emotions and serve as a testament to the enduring influence of this dynamic southern metropolis on the world of music.