50 State Songs: A Complete US Anthem Guide

Each of the 50 United States boasts its unique identity, and what better way to encapsulate that than through a state song? These melodies, often rich in history and local pride, offer a glimpse into the heart of each state. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the official songs of all 50 states, delving into their origins, meanings, and the stories they tell. Whether you're a music enthusiast, a history buff, or simply curious about American culture, join us on this melodic journey across the nation.

What is a State Song?

A state song is an officially recognized song representing a U.S. state, often chosen for its historical significance, cultural relevance, or artistic merit. Many states have multiple official songs, including state anthems, state ballads, state folk songs, and even state instrumentals. These songs are typically adopted through legislative action, reflecting a state's unique heritage and identity. — Kittens For Sale In Las Vegas: Find Your New Furry Friend

The History of State Songs

The tradition of state songs dates back to the 19th century, with many songs emerging from patriotic or sentimental origins. As states sought to solidify their cultural identities, songs became a powerful symbol of unity and pride. Over time, the selection process has evolved, with some states holding contests or public votes to determine their official songs. — Mets Game Today: News, Scores, And Updates

Alabama

• Official State Song: "Alabama"
  • Written by Julia Tutwiler and composed by Edna Gockel Gussen, "Alabama" became the state song in 1931. The lyrics celebrate Alabama's natural beauty and history.

Alaska

• Official State Song: "Alaska's Flag"
  • With words and music by Marie Drake, "Alaska's Flag" was adopted in 1955. The song pays homage to the Alaskan flag and the state's unique spirit.

Arizona

• Official State Song: "Arizona"
  • Written by Margaret Rowe Clifford and composed by Maurice Blumenthal, "Arizona" became the state song in 1919. It praises the state's scenic landscapes and vibrant culture.

Arkansas

• Official State Song: "Arkansas"
  • Written by Eva Ware Barnett, "Arkansas" was adopted as the state song in 1949. The song extols the natural beauty and resources of the state.

California

• Official State Song: "I Love You, California"
  • With words by F. B. Silverwood and music by A. F. Frankenstein, "I Love You, California" became the official state song in 1951. It's a vibrant ode to the Golden State's charms.

Colorado

• Official State Song: "Where the Columbines Grow"
  • Written and composed by A. J. Fynn, "Where the Columbines Grow" became the state song in 1915. It celebrates Colorado's state flower and natural beauty.

Connecticut

• Official State Song: "Yankee Doodle"
  • Though its origins are debated, "Yankee Doodle" was adopted as the state song in 1978. It's a classic patriotic tune with ties to the American Revolution.

Delaware

• Official State Song: "Our Delaware"
  • With words by George B. Hynson and music by Will M. S. Brown, "Our Delaware" was adopted in 1925. The song honors the state's history and contributions to the nation.

Florida

• Official State Song: "The Swanee River (Old Folks at Home)"
  • Written by Stephen Foster, "The Swanee River" became Florida's state song in 1935. It evokes images of the state's iconic river and nostalgic themes.

Georgia

• Official State Song: "Georgia On My Mind"
  • Written by Hoagy Carmichael and Stuart Gorrell, "Georgia On My Mind" became the official state song in 1979. It's a soulful ballad that expresses a deep connection to the state.

Hawaii

• Official State Song: "Hawaiʻi Ponoʻī"
  • With words by King David Kalākaua and music by Henry Berger, "Hawaiʻi Ponoʻī" was adopted in 1967. It's a beloved anthem that celebrates Hawaiian heritage and royalty.

Idaho

• Official State Song: "Here We Have Idaho"
  • With words by Sallie Hume Douglas and music by Albert J. Tompkins, "Here We Have Idaho" became the state song in 1931. The song praises the state's scenic beauty and resources.

Illinois

• Official State Song: "Illinois"
  • Written by C. H. Chamberlain and composed by Archibald Johnston, "Illinois" was adopted as the state song in 1967. It's a tribute to the state's history and contributions.

Indiana

• Official State Song: "On the Banks of the Wabash, Far Away"
  • Written by Paul Dresser, "On the Banks of the Wabash, Far Away" became the state song in 1913. It's a nostalgic ballad about the Indiana landscape.

Iowa

• Official State Song: "The Song of Iowa"
  • With words by S. H. M. Byers, "The Song of Iowa" was adopted in 1911. It celebrates the state's natural beauty and agricultural heritage.

Kansas

• Official State Song: "Home on the Range"
  • With words by Brewster M. Higley and music attributed to Daniel E. Kelley, "Home on the Range" became the state song in 1947. It's a classic Western tune that evokes images of the prairie.

Kentucky

• Official State Song: "My Old Kentucky Home"
  • Written by Stephen Foster, "My Old Kentucky Home" was adopted as the state song in 1928. It's a poignant ballad about home and nostalgia.

Louisiana

• Official State Songs: "Give Me Louisiana" and "You Are My Sunshine"
  • "Give Me Louisiana," written by Doralice Fontane, and "You Are My Sunshine," written by Jimmie Davis, share the title of state song, reflecting Louisiana's rich musical heritage.

Maine

• Official State Song: "State of Maine Song"
  • With words and music by Roger Vinton Snow, "State of Maine Song" was adopted in 1937. It celebrates Maine's natural beauty and spirit.

Maryland

• Official State Song: "Maryland, My Maryland"
  • Written by James Ryder Randall and set to the tune of "Lauriger Horatius," "Maryland, My Maryland" was adopted in 1939. It's a Civil War-era song with a complex history.

Massachusetts

• Official State Folk Song: "Massachusetts"
  • Written by Arlo Guthrie, "Massachusetts" became the official state folk song in 1981. It's a contemporary tune that reflects the state's cultural identity.

Michigan

• Official State Song: "My Michigan"
  • With words by Giles Kavanagh and music by H. O. Cary, "My Michigan" was adopted in 1937. It's a tribute to the state's natural beauty and industry.

Minnesota

• Official State Song: "Hail! Minnesota"
  • With words by Truman Rickard and music by the University of Minnesota Rouser, "Hail! Minnesota" became the state song in 1945. It celebrates the state's spirit and pride.

Mississippi

• Official State Song: "Go, Mississippi"
  • Written by Houston Davis, "Go, Mississippi" was adopted as the state song in 1962. It's a spirited anthem that celebrates the state's identity.

Missouri

• Official State Song: "Missouri Waltz"
  • With music by John Valentine Eppel and lyrics later added by J. T. Taylor, "Missouri Waltz" became the state song in 1949. It's a classic waltz that evokes the state's history.

Montana

• Official State Songs: "Montana" and "Montana Melody"
  • "Montana," with words by Charles C. Cohan and music by Joseph E. Howard, and "Montana Melody," written by Carleen and LeJeune Thompson, share the title of state song.

Nebraska

• Official State Song: "Beautiful Nebraska"
  • Written by Jim Fras and Guy Miller, "Beautiful Nebraska" became the state song in 1967. It celebrates the state's scenic beauty and agricultural heritage.

Nevada

• Official State Song: "Home Means Nevada"
  • Written by Bertha Raffetto, "Home Means Nevada" was adopted as the state song in 1932. It's a heartfelt tribute to the Silver State.

New Hampshire

• Official State Song: "Old New Hampshire"
  • With words by John Holmes and music from "O Tannenbaum," "Old New Hampshire" became the state song in 1949. It celebrates the state's history and natural beauty.

New Jersey

• Official State Song: (None)
  • New Jersey does not currently have an official state song.

New Mexico

• Official State Song: "O Fair New Mexico"
  • With words and music by Elizabeth Garrett, "O Fair New Mexico" became the state song in 1917. It's a tribute to the state's unique culture and landscapes.

New York

• Official State Song: "I Love New York"
  • Written by Steve Karmen, "I Love New York" became the state song in 1980. It's a catchy jingle that promotes the state's tourism.

North Carolina

• Official State Song: "The Old North State"
  • With words by William Gaston, "The Old North State" was adopted as the state song in 1927. It celebrates North Carolina's history and heritage.

North Dakota

• Official State Song: "North Dakota Hymn"
  • With words by Elwyn B. Robinson and music by C. S. Putnam, "North Dakota Hymn" became the state song in 1947. It's a tribute to the state's spirit and resilience.

Ohio

• Official State Song: "Beautiful Ohio"
  • With music by Mary Earl and lyrics by several contributors, "Beautiful Ohio" became the state song in 1969. It celebrates the state's scenic beauty.

Oklahoma

• Official State Song: "Oklahoma!"
  • From the musical of the same name, written by Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II, "Oklahoma!" became the state song in 1953. It celebrates the state's vibrant spirit.

Oregon

• Official State Song: "Oregon, My Oregon"
  • With words by J. A. Buchanan and music by Henry B. Murtagh, "Oregon, My Oregon" became the state song in 1927. It's a tribute to the state's natural beauty.

Pennsylvania

• Official State Song: "Pennsylvania"
  • With words and music by Eddie Khoury and Ronnie Bonner, "Pennsylvania" became the state song in 1990. It's a contemporary tune that celebrates the state.

Rhode Island

• Official State Song: "Rhode Island, It's for Me"
  • With words by Charlie Hall and music by Maria Day, "Rhode Island, It's for Me" became the state song in 1996. It celebrates the state's unique charm.

South Carolina

• Official State Songs: "Carolina" and "South Carolina on My Mind"
  • "Carolina," with words by Henry Timrod and music from "The Bonnie Blue Flag," and "South Carolina on My Mind," written by Hank Martin and Buzz Arledge, share the title of state song.

South Dakota

• Official State Song: "Hail, South Dakota!"
  • With words and music by Deecort Hammitt, "Hail, South Dakota!" became the state song in 1919. It celebrates the state's history and spirit.

Tennessee

• Official State Songs: Tennessee has multiple official songs, including "My Homeland, Tennessee," "When It's Iris Time in Tennessee," "Rocky Top," and "Tennessee Waltz."

Texas

• Official State Song: "Texas, Our Texas"
  • With words by William J. Marsh and Gladys Yoakum Wright and music by William J. Marsh, "Texas, Our Texas" became the state song in 1929. It's a proud anthem of the Lone Star State.

Utah

• Official State Song: "Utah, We Love Thee"
  • With words by Evan Stephens, "Utah, We Love Thee" became the state song in 1955. It's a heartfelt tribute to the state's beauty and heritage.

Vermont

• Official State Songs: "These Green Mountains"
  • With words and music by Diane Martin, “These Green Mountains” became the state song in 1999.

Virginia

• Official State Song: "Carry Me Back to Old Virginny"
  • Written by James A. Bland, “Carry Me Back to Old Virginny” became the state song in 1940.

Washington

• Official State Song: "Washington, My Home"
  • With words by Helen Davis and music by Stuart Churchill, “Washington, My Home” became the state song in 1959.

West Virginia

• Official State Songs: "The West Virginia Hills," "This Is My West Virginia," and "West Virginia, My Home."
  • These three songs share the title of state song, each celebrating different aspects of West Virginia’s heritage.

Wisconsin

• Official State Song: "On, Wisconsin!"
  • With words by Charles D. Rosa and J. S. Hubbard and music by William T. Purdy, “On, Wisconsin!” became the state song in 1909.

Wyoming

• Official State Song: "Wyoming"
  • With words by Charles E. Winter and music by George E. Knapp, “Wyoming” became the state song in 1955. It's a tribute to the state's majestic landscapes.

Conclusion

State songs are more than just melodies; they're cultural artifacts that tell the story of a state's history, identity, and spirit. From patriotic anthems to sentimental ballads, these songs offer a unique glimpse into the heart of America. Explore these melodies, share them with others, and celebrate the diverse musical tapestry of the United States. — Cinch Home Warranty: How To Contact Cinch