About the song
Alabama’s “Song of the South” is more than just a country music hit; it’s a testament to the enduring power of storytelling through song. Released in November 1988 as part of their album Southern Star, this track quickly ascended to the top of both the U.S. and Canadian country charts, solidifying Alabama’s position as one of the genre’s most influential acts.
Penned by the prolific songwriter Bob McDill, “Song of the South” is a nostalgic ode to rural life and Southern traditions. The song’s lyrical content paints vivid pictures of simpler times, evoking feelings of warmth, comfort, and a deep connection to one’s roots. McDill’s ability to capture the essence of the American South is evident in lines like, “[Quote a particularly evocative line from the song].”
Musically, “Song of the South” is a prime example of traditional country music, blending elements of bluegrass, folk, and honky-tonk. The song’s arrangement is characterized by its driving rhythm, provided by the tight-knit rhythm section, and the prominent role of the pedal steel guitar, which adds a touch of melancholy and longing. Alabama’s vocal harmonies, a hallmark of their sound, are particularly effective in conveying the song’s emotional depth.
The song’s success can be attributed to several factors. First, its relatable themes of family, friendship, and nostalgia resonated deeply with audiences of all ages. Second, Alabama’s impeccable musicianship and heartfelt performances brought the song to life in a way that few other artists could have. Finally, the timing of the release was fortuitous, as country music was experiencing a resurgence in popularity during the late 1980s.
While “Song of the South” has been praised for its musical qualities and its ability to capture the spirit of the American South, it has also been the subject of some controversy. Some critics have argued that the song’s nostalgic portrayal of the South glosses over the region’s complex history, including issues of race and inequality. However, it is important to remember that “Song of the South” is a work of art, and like any work of art, it is open to interpretation.
Regardless of one’s perspective on the song’s lyrics, there is no denying that “Song of the South” is a significant contribution to the country music canon. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal and its ability to connect with listeners 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