About the song
When you think of timeless country music, Alabama is a name that often comes to mind. The group’s harmonious blend of traditional country and Southern rock has earned them a special place in the hearts of fans for decades. One such track that perfectly encapsulates their sound and storytelling abilities is “Song of the South.”
Released in 1988 as part of their album Southern Star, “Song of the South” quickly climbed the charts, eventually reaching the coveted number one spot in both the United States and Canada. This song wasn’t just another hit for Alabama; it was a heartfelt tribute to the Southern way of life that resonated deeply with their audience.
A Song with Roots
Before Alabama made “Song of the South” a chart-topping hit, the song had a rich history. It was originally penned by Bob McDill, a renowned songwriter known for his ability to capture the essence of small-town America. McDill’s words painted vivid pictures of rural landscapes, close-knit communities, and the simple pleasures of life.
Bobby Bare was the first artist to record “Song of the South” in 1980, but it was Johnny Russell’s version that initially brought the song to a wider audience. However, it was Alabama’s powerful rendition that truly propelled the song into the country music stratosphere.
Why It Resonates
There are several reasons why “Song of the South” has endured for so many years. First, the song’s lyrics evoke a sense of nostalgia and longing for a simpler time. The imagery of rolling hills, dusty roads, and front porch swings is instantly recognizable to anyone who has spent time in the South.
Second, the melody is both catchy and memorable. The combination of traditional country instrumentation and Alabama’s signature harmonies creates a sound that is both familiar and refreshing. The song’s structure is also very effective, with a clear verse-chorus-bridge format that makes it easy for listeners to sing along.
Finally, “Song of the South” is a celebration of Southern culture and heritage. The song’s themes of family, friendship, and community are universal, but they are presented in a way that is distinctly Southern. This has helped to make the song a favorite among older generations who grew up listening to country music.
A Lasting Legacy
“Song of the South” is more than just a song; it’s a cultural touchstone. Alabama’s recording of the song has become a beloved classic, and it continues to be played on country radio stations around the world. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to the group’s songwriting skills and their ability to connect with audiences on a deep emotional level.
Video
Lyrics
Song, song of the south
Sweet potato pie and I shut my mouth
Gone, gone with the wind
There ain’t nobody lookin’ back again
Cotton on the roadside, cotton in the ditch
We all picked the cotton, but we never got rich
Daddy was a veteran, a Southern Democrat
They ought to get a rich man to vote like that
Sing it
Song, song of the south
Sweet potato pie and I shut my mouth
Gone, gone with the wind
There ain’t nobody lookin’ back again
Well, somebody told us Wall Street fell
But we were so poor that we couldn’t tell
Cotton was short and the weeds were tall
But Mr. Roosevelt’s a-gonna save us all
Well, Mama got sick and Daddy got down
The county got the farm and we moved to town
Papa got a job with the TVA
He bought a washin’ machine and then a Chevrolet
Sing it
Song, song of the south
Sweet potato pie and I shut my mouth
Gone, gone with the wind
There ain’t nobody lookin’ back again
Play it
Sing it
Song, song of the south
Sweet potato pie and I shut my mouth
(Gone) gone, gone with the wind
There ain’t nobody lookin’ back again
Song, song of the south
(Gone) gone, gone with the wind
Song, song of the south
Sweet potato pie and I shut my mouth
Song, song of the south
Sweet potato pie and I shut my mouth
Sing it
Song, song of the south
Sweet potato pie and I shut my mouth
Gone, gone with the wind
Ain’t nobody lookin’ back again
Song, song of the south
Sweet potato pie and I shut my mouth
Gone, gone with the wind
Ain’t nobody lookin’ back again
Song, song of the south
Sweet potato pie and I shut my mouth