35 Best Songs About Georgia
Georgia has been a source of inspiration for many musicians over the years. From the bluesy swamps to the bustling city of Atlanta, the state has a rich history and culture that has been reflected in countless songs.
In this article, we’ll look at the best songs about Georgia. Enjoy.
Contents
1. “Georgia on My Mind” by Ray Charles
Song Year: 1960
While “Georgia on My Mind” is a song written by Hoagy Carmichael and Stuart Gorrell in 1930, it was Ray Charles' 1960 recording that made it a worldwide hit and an enduring classic.
With its stirring orchestration and heartfelt vocals, Charles' soulful rendition captures the nostalgic longing for the singer's home state of Georgia. The song's lyrics and melody have become synonymous with Georgia, and in 1979, it was declared the official song of the state.
2. “Midnight Train to Georgia” by Gladys Knight & the Pips
Song Year: 1973
“Midnight Train to Georgia” is a 1973 hit song by Gladys Knight & the Pips, written by Jim Weatherly. The song tells the story of a man who leaves Los Angeles to return to his hometown of Georgia after failing to achieve his dreams of stardom.
The song won a Grammy Award for Best R&B Vocal Performance, and its enduring popularity has led to numerous covers and references in popular culture.
3. “The Devil Went Down to Georgia” by The Charlie Daniels Band
Song Year: 1979
“The Devil Went Down to Georgia” is a 1979 country-rock song by The Charlie Daniels Band. The song tells the story of a fiddle-playing contest between the devil and a young man named Johnny in Georgia, where he is offered a golden fiddle if he wins the contest, but if he loses, he must surrender his soul.
“The Devil Went Down to Georgia” earned the band a Grammy Award for Best Country Vocal Performance by a Duo or Group and remains one of their most iconic songs.
4. “Rainy Night in Georgia” by Brook Benton
Song Year: 1970
“Rainy Night in Georgia” is a 1970 soulful ballad by Brook Benton, written by Tony Joe White. Benton's smooth and emotive vocals and the song's haunting melody and evocative lyrics create a powerful mood of sadness and introspection.
Numerous artists have covered the song over the years and has become a classic of the soul and R&B genres.
5. “Georgia Peaches” by Lauren Alaina
Song Year: 2011
“Georgia Peaches” is a country-pop song by Lauren Alaina, co-written with Rhett Akins and Dallas Davidson. The song celebrates the fun and sassy personality of southern girls, specifically those from Georgia, referring to them as “Georgia peaches.”
This song is fun and empowering and celebrates the spirit of southern girls, and has become a fan favorite in Lauren Alaina's catalog.
6. “Sweet Georgia Brown” by Ben Bernie
Song Year: 1925
“Sweet Georgia Brown” is a jazz standard that was composed in 1925 by Ben Bernie, Maceo Pinkard, and Kenneth Casey. Numerous artists have covered the song over the years and has become a popular choice for jazz musicians and fans alike.
Its upbeat melody and catchy lyrics, including the famous line “No gal made has got a shade on sweet Georgia Brown,” have made it a beloved genre classic. The song may be most famous in the whistled version used as the theme music for the Harlem Globetrotters.
7. “Georgia Mud” by Jon & the Wreck
Song Year: 2015
“Georgia Mud” is a 2015 rock song by Robert Jon & the Wreck, a blues-infused rock band from Orange County, California. The song features a driving rhythm, powerful guitar riffs, and soulful vocals, creating a gritty and intense atmosphere.
The lyrics describe a character who longs to return to his roots in Georgia. “Georgia Mud” showcases the band's impressive musicianship and songwriting, with its bluesy rock sound and evocative lyrics capturing the spirit of American roots music.
8. “Georgia Clay” by Josh Kelley
Song Year: 2011
This song describes Josh Kelley's memories of growing up in Georgia and his hometown's influence on who he grew up to be.
The song's gentle melody, accompanied by Kelley's vocals and acoustic guitar, creates a warm and nostalgic atmosphere. “Georgia Clay” is a heartfelt tribute to the values of hard work, family, and the importance of one's roots.
9. “Savannah Nights” by Tom Johnston
Song Year: 1979
“Savannah Nights” is a 1979 rock song by Tom Johnston, a founding member and guitarist of the Doobie Brothers. The song's upbeat tempo, catchy chorus, and energetic guitar riffs capture the lively spirit of the city of Savannah, Georgia.
The lyrics describe the excitement and joy of experiencing the vibrant nightlife of Savannah. “Savannah Nights” showcases Johnston's impressive guitar skills and songwriting abilities, creating a memorable and fun track that has become a beloved classic of the Southern rock genre.
10. “The Night the Lights Went Out in Georgia” by Vicki Lawrence
Song Year: 1973
“The Night the Lights Went Out in Georgia” is a 1972 country pop song by Vicki Lawrence. The song tells the story of a young man framed for murder in a small Georgia town, with the lyrics describing the twists and turns of the murder mystery.
Lawrence's smooth vocals and the song's haunting melody and storytelling lyrics create a powerful and cinematic atmosphere.
11. “Georgia Rain” by Trisha Yearwood
Song Year: 2005
This song's gentle melody and Trisha Yearwood's vocals create a warm atmosphere, with the lyrics describing the memories of a summer romance and the smell of Georgia rain.
“Georgia Rain” showcases Yearwood's impressive vocal range and her ability to evoke deep emotions through her music. The song's sentimentality and romantic imagery have made it a fan favorite and a standout track in Yearwood's discography.
12. “My Little Georgia Rose” by Bill Monroe
Song Year: 1973
“My Little Georgia Rose” is a classic bluegrass song first recorded by Bill Monroe in 1973. The song is a beautiful tribute to the state of Georgia and tells the story of a young man in love with his Georgia rose. The song is known for its catchy melody and Monroe's distinctive mandolin playing. The lyrics capture the beauty and romance of the American South.
13. “Georgia in a Jug” by Johnny Paycheck
Song Year: 1977
“Georgia in a Jug” is a country song by Johnny Paycheck that was released in 1977. The song is known for its catchy melody and lively instrumentation, including a honky-tonk piano and a twangy guitar.
The lyrics describe the narrator drowning his sorrows in alcohol from around the world, including moonshine from Georgia. “Georgia in a Jug” has become a beloved classic of the outlaw country genre and a testament to Paycheck's ability to tell stories through his music.
14. “Georgia Lee” by Tom Waits
Song Year: 1999
“Georgia Lee” is a haunting and emotional ballad by American singer-songwriter Tom Waits, released in 1999. The song tells the tragic story of a young girl named Georgia Lee, who goes missing and is later found murdered.
Waits' gravelly vocals and the sparse instrumentation create a bleak and mournful atmosphere, with the lyrics painting a vivid picture of the devastating impact of violence on a community.
15. “Georgia Boogie” by Curley Williams
Song Year: 1947
“Georgia Boogie” is an upbeat and energetic country song by Curley Williams, a singer and songwriter from Georgia. The song was released in the mid-1940s and is characterized by its lively piano playing, swing rhythm, and Williams' smooth vocals.
The lyrics describe the excitement and joy of dancing the boogie-woogie, a popular dance style at the time. “Georgia Boogie” is a classic of the country and western swing genres and a testament to Williams' ability to capture Southern culture's lively spirit and rhythm.
16. “Georgia On A Fast Train” by Billy Joe Shaver
Song Year: 1993
“Georgia On A Fast Train” is a rollicking country song by American singer-songwriter Billy Joe Shaver. The song was released in 1993 and is characterized by its fast-paced rhythm, twangy guitar riffs, and Shaver's distinctive, raspy vocals.
The lyrics tell the story of a hard-living, rough-edged character from Georgia who is always on the go, taking risks and living on his terms. “Georgia On A Fast Train” is a classic of the outlaw country genre.
17. “Georgia Blues” by Blind Willie McTell
Song Year: 1933
“Savannah Mama” is a classic blues song by Blind Willie McTell, an American blues singer and guitarist from Georgia. The song was recorded in 1933 and is characterized by McTell's intricate fingerpicking on the guitar and his distinctive, soulful vocals.
The lyrics describe the beauty and allure of Savannah, a city in Georgia, and the many pleasures to be found there. “Savannah Mama” is a classic example of McTell's ability to capture the essence of the blues and to evoke the sights, sounds, and feelings of his native Georgia.
18. “Georgia Crawl” by Henry Williams
Song Year: 1928
“Georgia Crawl” is a classic blues song originally recorded by Henry Williams in 1928. The song is characterized by its upbeat, danceable rhythm and the lively call-and-response between the guitar and the vocals.
The lyrics describe the popular dance craze known as the Georgia Crawl. It is a timeless example of the vibrant tradition of African American music and the enduring appeal of the blues as a genre that has captivated audiences for generations.
19. “Georgia Bound” by Blind Blake
Song Year: 1929
“Georgia Bound” is a classic blues song recorded by Blind Blake in 1929. The song is characterized by its intricate fingerpicking guitar style and Blake's expressive, soulful vocals.
The lyrics describe the experiences of a man traveling from his home in Georgia to the northern states in search of work and better opportunities. “Georgia Bound” is a poignant and evocative song that captures the struggles and hardships of African Americans in the early 20th century.
20. “Georgia Sunshine” by Jerry Reed
Song Year: 1970
“Georgia Sunshine” is a country music classic by Jerry Reed. The song was released in 1970, featuring Reed's signature fingerstyle guitar playing and catchy lyrics.
The song is an upbeat celebration of the state of Georgia and its many attractions, from the countryside's beauty to its people's warmth. Reed's distinctive voice and masterful guitar playing make “Georgia Sunshine” a timeless classic that captures the spirit and soul of the American South.
21. “Georgia Slop” by Jimmy McCracklin
Song Year: 1959
This classic R&B song was recorded by Jimmy McCracklin in 1959. The song features a rollicking piano riff and a driving beat, with McCracklin's soulful vocals adding to it.
The song is a classic example of the upbeat, feel-good R&B music that dominated the airwaves in the early 1960s.
22. “Georgia Warhorse” by JJ Grey and Mofro
Song Year: 2010
“Georgia Warhorse” is a tribute to the resilient nature of the people and wildlife of rural Georgia, with Grey's soulful vocals and the band's tight musicianship capturing the spirit of the American South.
The song received critical acclaim for its raw energy and emotional depth, cementing JJ Grey & Mofro's reputation as one of the most exciting acts in modern blues and roots music.
23. “Georgia” by Field Mob and Ludacris
Song Year: 2005
“Georgia” is a hip-hop song by Field Mob featuring Ludacris, released in 2005. The track features a laid-back Southern beat and lyrics that celebrate the artists' love for the state of Georgia.
Field Mob's smooth flow and Ludacris' confident rhymes capture the spirit of Southern pride, with references to landmarks, cultural icons, and experiences unique to the region. The song also features Jamie Foxx.
24. “We Dem Georgia Boyz” by Pastor Troy
Song Year: 2003
“We Dem Georgia Boyz” is a 2003 hip-hop anthem by Pastor Troy, a rapper and producer from College Park, Georgia. The song's hard-hitting beat, aggressive flow, and lyrics celebrate the artist's Georgia roots and pride in his Southern heritage.
The chorus repeats the phrase “We dem Georgia boyz,” an assertion of Troy's identity as a rapper from the state of Georgia. The song became a hit in the Atlanta hip-hop scene and is still popular today.
25. “Georgia” by Shawny BinLaden
Song Year: 2021
“Georgia” is a popular song by Shawny BinLaden, a rising rapper from Savannah, Georgia. Released in 2021, the song features a catchy trap beat and Shawny's distinct flow, delivering lyrics that boast his hometown pride and his success in the music industry.
The song has become a staple in the Atlanta hip-hop scene and has garnered Shawny BinLaden a growing fanbase.
26. “Georgia Clay” by Xavier Lewis
Song Year: 2012
“Georgia Clay” is a soulful R&B song by Xavier Lewis, a singer-songwriter from Atlanta, Georgia. The song features a smooth and heartfelt vocal performance, with lyrics reflecting the importance of one's roots and upbringing.
Lewis pays homage to his home state of Georgia, referencing the red clay, a signature feature of the state's landscape.
27. “Going to Georgia” by The Mountain Goats
Song Year: 1994
“Going to Georgia” is a 1994 indie rock song by The Mountain Goats, led by singer-songwriter John Darnielle. The song tells the story of a person traveling to Georgia to find their lover, with the lyrics describing the journey in vivid and poetic detail.
Darnielle's raw vocals and his acoustic guitar and the band's sparse instrumentation create a powerful and intimate atmosphere. “Going to Georgia” has become a fan favorite and a signature song for The Mountain Goats.
28. “Georgia” by Thomas Headon
Song Year: 2022
“Georgia” by Thomas Headon is a catchy indie-pop song that tells the story of a young man who was enamored with a girl back who lives in Georgia.
The song features Headon's smooth vocals over a bright, upbeat melody with electronic pop and indie rock elements. The lyrics describe the singer's infatuation with the girl but that he will never be down in Georgia.
29. “Way Down in Georgia” by Travis Tritt
Song Year: 2021
“Way Down in Georgia” is a country-rock song performed by Travis Tritt. The song, which was released in 2021, describes the singer's love for the southern state of Georgia, from its beautiful scenery to its unique music and traditions.
Tritt's powerful vocals and energetic instrumentals make for an upbeat and catchy track that celebrates the singer's roots.
30. “Georgia Rag” by Georgia Bill
Song Year: 1991
“Georgia Rag” is a song popularized by Georgia Bill, a blues guitarist and singer from the early 20th century. The song features lively guitar riffs and fast-paced rhythms that perfectly capture the spirit of traditional ragtime music.
The piece was later covered by other artists, including Blind Blake and Blind Boy Fuller, and became a staple of early blues and ragtime recordings.
Today, “Georgia Rag” continues to be recognized as an essential contribution to the history of American roots music and a testament to the creativity and talent of the early blues musicians.
31. “Georgia Grind” by Louis Armstrong
Song Year: 1926
“Georgia Grind” is a blues song first recorded by Ma Rainey, but it became more popular in 1926 when Louis Armstrong recorded his version. The song's catchy melody and lyrics, which describe a dance popular in Georgia during the 1920s, made it a favorite among jazz and blues musicians of the time.
Armstrong's version is notable for his energetic vocals and signature trumpet playing, adding a layer of improvisation and swing to the song.
32. “Bury Me in Georgia” by Kane Brown
Song Year: 2022
“Bury Me in Georgia” is a country song by Kane Brown that pays tribute to his home state. The song was released in 2022 as a part of his album “Experiment”.
The lyrics speak of Kane's love and deep connection with Georgia, expressing his desire to be buried in the state when he passes away. He sings about the familiar landscapes, his childhood memories, and his family's importance in his life.
33. “Georgia Skies” by Two Weeks in Nashville
Song Year: 2021
“Georgia Skies” is a country-rock song by Two Weeks in Nashville, a band from the UK. The song tells the story of a person longing to be with someone they love under the Georgia skies.
The lyrics paint a picture of a romantic and idyllic setting, and the singer is watching the Georgia skies alone because he had to leave the girl he loved.
34. “Oh, Atlanta” by Bad Company
Song Year: 1979
“Oh, Atlanta” is a rock song by the English rock band Bad Company. It was released in 1979 as a single from their album “Desolation Angels.” Guitarist Mick Ralphs wrote the song, and it features a memorable guitar riff and powerful vocals from lead singer Paul Rodgers.
The lyrics describe the narrator's desire to leave his current location and travel to Atlanta, Georgia, where he feels he can start over and find a new life. The song became a hit for the band, reaching 50 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and remaining a fan favorite for years.
35. “Heads in Georgia” by J.J. Cale
Song Year: 2006
“Heads in Georgia” is a blues rock song by JJ Cale, featuring Eric Clapton on guitar and vocals. The song was released on Cale's 2006 album, “The Road to Escondido.” The lyrics describe the singer’s love of the simple life in Georgia, but his woman wants to head for California.
The song's bluesy guitar riffs and laid-back rhythm create a relaxed and nostalgic atmosphere. The collaboration between Cale and Clapton showcases their mutual love for the blues and their effortless musical chemistry.
Top Songs About Georgia, Final Thoughts
From the early blues and country music to modern hip-hop and rock, Georgia has inspired countless musicians. With its rich history, natural beauty, and vibrant culture, it's no surprise that many songs have been written about the state.
From the iconic “Georgia On My Mind” to the lesser-known gems like “Georgia Skies” and “Georgia Rag,” this list of songs highlights the diverse and timeless musical legacy of Georgia. These songs not only celebrate the state's unique character but also showcase the enduring power of music to connect people across generations and cultures.
