About the song
Remember the days when music had the power to transport you to another place? The Charlie Daniels Band’s iconic hit, “The Devil Went Down to Georgia,” is one of those songs. Released in 1977, this foot-stomping, fiddle-driven tune has become a staple in country music and a beloved American classic.
The song tells a tale as old as time: a young, talented musician challenges the devil himself to a fiddle contest. With stakes as high as his soul, the protagonist’s fiery playing and unwavering determination make for a thrilling narrative. It’s a story that resonates with anyone who has ever dreamed of overcoming adversity and achieving greatness.
Charlie Daniels was a master storyteller, and his lyrics paint vivid pictures of the Deep South. The imagery of the “fire on the mountain” and the “devil in the house of the rising sun” creates a sense of urgency and danger that keeps listeners on the edge of their seats. But it’s the song’s underlying themes of good versus evil and the power of faith that make it truly enduring.
Musically, “The Devil Went Down to Georgia” is a perfect blend of traditional country and Southern rock. The driving rhythm, combined with Daniels’ signature fiddle playing and the band’s tight harmonies, create a sound that is both familiar and exciting. The song’s popularity can be attributed in part to its catchy chorus and memorable guitar solo, which has been imitated by countless musicians over the years.
Beyond its musical merits, “The Devil Went Down to Georgia” has also had a significant cultural impact. It has been featured in numerous films and television shows, and it remains a popular choice for sporting events and other large gatherings. The song’s enduring appeal is a testament to the power of great storytelling and the timeless nature of the human spirit.
If you’re looking for a song that will make you tap your feet and sing along, “The Devil Went Down to Georgia” is the perfect choice. It’s a reminder of a simpler time, when music had the power to bring people together and inspire us to dream big.
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Lyrics
The Devil went down to Georgia. He was lookin’ for a soul to steal.
He was in a bind ’cause he was way behind and he was willing to make a deal
When he came across this young man sawin’ on a fiddle and playin’ it hot.
And the Devil jumped upon a hickory stump and said, “Boy, let me tell you what.”“I guess you didn’t know it, but I’m a fiddle player, too.
And if you’d care to take a dare I’ll make a bet with you.
Now you play a pretty good fiddle, boy, but give the Devil his due.
I’ll bet a fiddle of gold against your soul ’cause I think I’m better than you.”The boy said, “My name’s Johnny, and it might be a sin,
But I’ll take your bet; you’re gonna regret ’cause I’m the best there’s ever been.”Johnny, rosin up your bow and play your fiddle hard.
‘Cause Hell’s broke loose in Georgia and the Devil deals the cards.
And if you win you get this shiny fiddle made of gold,
But if you lose the Devil gets your soul.The Devil opened up his case and he said, “I’ll start this show.”
And fire flew from his fingertips as he rosined up his bow.
And he pulled the bow across the strings and it made an evil hiss.
And a band of demons joined in and it sounded something like this.When the Devil finished, Johnny said, “Well, you’re pretty good, old son,
But sit down in that chair right there, let me show you how it’s done.”“Fire on the Mountain”. Run, boys, run!
The Devil’s in the house of the rising sun;
Chicken in the bread pan picking out dough.
Granny, does your dog bite? No, child, no.The Devil bowed his head because he knew that he’d been beat.
And he laid that golden fiddle on the ground at Johnny’s feet.
Johnny said, “Devil, just come on back, if you ever wanna try again,
I done told you once, you son of a bitch, I’m the best that’s ever been.”
And he played:“Fire on the Mountain”. Run, boys, run!
Devil’s in the house of the rising sun;
The chicken in the bread pan picking out dough.
Granny, will your dog bite? No, child, no.