About the song
“Georgia on My Mind,” originally composed by Hoagy Carmichael with lyrics by Stuart Gorrell in 1930, stands as a quintessential anthem evoking the deep sentiments for the state of Georgia, USA. While Hoagy Carmichael’s initial recording set the song in motion, it was Ray Charles’ soulful rendition in 1960 that elevated it to iconic status.
Ray Charles, a Georgia native, recorded “Georgia on My Mind” for his album “The Genius Hits the Road.” His emotive interpretation, blending elements of soul, jazz, and rhythm and blues, struck a chord with listeners, propelling the song to the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1960. This rendition not only became synonymous with Charles’ illustrious career but also solidified the song’s place in the Great American Songbook tradition.
In a testament to its enduring appeal, “Georgia on My Mind” was designated as the official state song of Georgia in 1979, a recognition of its cultural significance and emotional resonance within the state. Ray Charles was honored to perform the song at the Georgia State Capitol in celebration of this designation.
Beyond its accolades, the song has been inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame twice: first in 1993 for Ray Charles’ rendition and later in 2014 for Hoagy Carmichael’s original recording with His Orchestra. Its poignant lyrics and evocative melody have transcended generations, making it a beloved classic covered by numerous artists and featured in various cultural contexts.
Notably, “Georgia on My Mind” continues to be celebrated in popular culture, from its use as the opening theme of the TV series “Designing Women” to its homage in clay animation featuring U.S. President Jimmy Carter singing Charles’ version. Rolling Stone magazine also recognized Ray Charles’ rendition as the 44th greatest song of all time in 2003, further cementing its place in music history.
With its enduring presence in the Georgia Code, including the often omitted introductory verse, “Georgia on My Mind” remains a timeless ode to the beauty and nostalgia of the American South, forever etched in the hearts of music enthusiasts worldwide.
Video
Lyrics
Georgia, Georgia
The whole day through (the whole day through)
Just an old sweet song
Keeps Georgia on my mind (Georgia on my mind)
I said Georgia
Georgia
A song of you (a song of you)
Comes as sweet and clear
As moonlight through the pines
Other arms reach out to me
Other eyes smile tenderly
Still in peaceful dreams I see
The road leads back to you
I said Georgia
Oh Georgia, no peace I find (no peace I find)
Just an old sweet song
Keeps Georgia on my mind (Georgia on my mind)
Other arms reach out to me
Other eyes smile tenderly
Still in peaceful dreams I see
The road leads back to you
Whoa-whoa, Georgia
Georgia
No peace, no peace I find
Just an old, sweet song
Keeps Georgia on my mind (Georgia on my mind)
I said just an old sweet song
Keeps Georgia on my mind