About the song
“Georgia On My Mind” is a soulful and iconic song that has been etched in the annals of music history. Written by Stuart Gorrell and Hoagy Carmichael in 1930, this timeless classic has been covered by numerous artists over the years, but none have done it justice quite like the legendary Ray Charles. Released in 1960, Charles’ version of “Georgia On My Mind” is a masterclass in soulful storytelling, showcasing his unparalleled vocal range and emotional depth.
The song’s origins date back to the 1930s, when it was first recorded by Hoagy Carmichael, the song’s co-writer. Initially, it was a jazz standard, with a more upbeat tempo and a focus on the song’s catchy melody. However, it wasn’t until Ray Charles’ version that the song took on a new life, with its soulful, bluesy undertones and Charles’ distinctive vocal style.
Charles’ rendition of “Georgia On My Mind” is a slow, sultry ballad that showcases his incredible vocal range and emotional depth. His smooth, velvety tone and masterful phrasing bring the song to life, transporting listeners to a bygone era of Southern charm and hospitality. The song’s lyrics, which speak of a longing for the state of Georgia and the memories it holds, are delivered with a sense of longing and nostalgia that is both poignant and relatable.
Throughout the song, Charles’ piano playing is equally impressive, providing a lush, atmospheric backdrop that complements his vocals perfectly. The song’s arrangement is simple yet effective, with a focus on Charles’ voice and piano that allows the listener to fully absorb the emotional depth of the song.
“Georgia On My Mind” has become an iconic song in American music, with its soulful, bluesy sound and timeless lyrics making it a staple of the Great American Songbook. Ray Charles’ version is widely regarded as the definitive recording, and its influence can be heard in countless other songs and artists. Whether you’re a music aficionado or simply a fan of classic soul, “Georgia On My Mind” is a must-listen, a song that will transport you to a bygone era of music and emotion.
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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