About the song
John Denver’s “Take Me Home, Country Roads” is a beloved classic that has resonated with audiences for generations. Released as a single on April 12, 1971, this iconic song quickly became one of Denver’s most enduring hits, encapsulating the spirit of rural America and the longing for home.
The song was written by John Denver, Bill Danoff, and Taffy Nivert. Interestingly, Denver wasn’t the original choice to perform the song. Danoff and Nivert, who were a part of the duo Fat City, had initially planned to sell it to Johnny Cash. However, after an impromptu jam session with Denver, they decided he was the perfect fit for the song. This collaboration led to the creation of one of the most recognized and loved songs in American music history.
“Take Me Home, Country Roads” was featured on Denver’s album “Poems, Prayers & Promises,” which marked a significant point in his career. The album showcased Denver’s talents not only as a singer but also as a songwriter, and it helped to establish him as a major figure in the country and folk music scenes.
The song’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of the beauty and tranquility of West Virginia, even though neither Danoff nor Nivert had ever been to the state when they wrote it. Lines like “Almost heaven, West Virginia, Blue Ridge Mountains, Shenandoah River” evoke a deep sense of nostalgia and longing for the simplicity and serenity of country life. This imagery, combined with Denver’s heartfelt delivery, has made the song an anthem for those who cherish the idea of home.
Upon its release, “Take Me Home, Country Roads” climbed the charts rapidly, peaking at number two on the Billboard Hot 100. It also achieved success internationally, reaching the top 10 in several countries. The song’s widespread appeal helped solidify John Denver’s reputation as one of the leading voices in country and folk music during the 1970s.
Over the years, “Take Me Home, Country Roads” has been covered by numerous artists across various genres, further attesting to its timeless appeal. It has also been featured in movies, commercials, and even as an official state song of West Virginia, cementing its place in American cultural heritage.
John Denver’s “Take Me Home, Country Roads” continues to be a beloved song that speaks to the universal longing for home and the simple pleasures of country life. Its heartfelt lyrics, memorable melody, and timeless appeal ensure that it will remain a cherished classic for many years to come.
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Lyrics
Almost heaven, West Virginia
Blue Ridge Mountains, Shenandoah River
Life is old there, older than the trees
Younger than the mountains, growin’ like a breeze
Country roads, take me home
To the place I belong
West Virginia, mountain mama
Take me home, country roads
All my memories gather ’round her
Miner’s lady, stranger to blue water
Dark and dusty, painted on the sky
Misty taste of moonshine, teardrop in my eye
Country roads, take me home
To the place I belong
West Virginia, mountain mama
Take me home, country roads
I hear her voice in the mornin’ hour, she calls me
The radio reminds me of my home far away
Drivin’ down the road, I get a feelin’
That I should’ve been home yesterday, yesterday
Country roads, take me home
To the place I belong
West Virginia, mountain mama
Take me home, country roads
Country roads, take me home
To the place I belong
West Virginia, mountain mama
Take me home, country roads
Take me home, (down) country roads
Take me home, (down) country roads