Georgia On My Mind

Go Dawgs!

Georgia On My Mind by Ray Charles

Recommended by Kim's dad

"Ray sings it best, and it's one of those songs where it comes on and everyone knows it and wants to sing along."

I have a story about this song actually. Some of my family and I took a vacation to Paris one summer. We had some struggles with the language barrier, but luckily this song is universal. Our first cab driver that took us to the hotel tried to make some conversation even though he didn't speak English that well, and we spoke zero French. Naturally, the question came up, "Where are you from?"

When we told him we were from Georgia, his eyebrows went up and he actually smiled as he said enthusiastically, "Ray Charles! Ray Charles!"

So yes, Mr. Crine, I would agree that yes, "EVERYONE knows it and wants to sing along."

As for the claim about Ray singing it best...of course. The song was written in 1930 but didn't become popular until Mr. Charles covered it in 1960. That about sums it up.

I'm from Georgia, born and raised, so I admit that I am biased, but this is the best possible state anthem. Sure, Sweet Home Alabama is an awesome jam, but that song has been used so often that it doesn't even remind me of the state anymore. New York and California have some nice tunes written about them, but that kind of dilutes it, you know?

When it comes to my home state, Georgia On My Mind is THE anthem. It's timeless and perfect, and I love it. 

What's not to love about that sugary intro? Those piano chords? Ray Charles's smooth voice?

The lyrics say it best: Just an old, sweet song keeps Georgia on my mind.

Overview:

Genre:
Jazz / Soul / Blues

Favorite Lyrics:
A song of youth comes as sweet and clear 
As moonlight through the pines.

Verdict:
Forever on my mind and in my heart.