10 Songs About Iowa

As a native Iowan, I can say with certainty that my home state doesn’t get nearly enough love in popular music. Sure, we may not have the glitz and glamour of California or the gritty edge of New York, but Iowa has a quiet charm and resilience that is often overlooked. Growing up here, I learned the value of hard work, community, and finding joy in simple pleasures.

That Midwestern spirit is captured beautifully in the 20 songs I’ve compiled that pay tribute to the Hawkeye State. From the nostalgic longing of “Stranded in Iowa” to the playful pride of “Iowa Stubborn,” these tunes run the gamut of emotions that come with being an Iowan. You’ll find odes to our most famous export (corn, of course), the bitter cold of a Des Moines winter, and the bittersweet pangs of leaving home.

While Iowa may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of music, these songs prove that our state has a special place in the hearts of many artists. As you listen, I hope you’ll gain a new appreciation for the quiet beauty and unsung charm of Iowa. And if you’re lucky enough to be from here, these songs will have you feeling a little more homesick and a lot more proud.

So without further ado, here are 10 songs that capture the essence of Iowa. Crank up the volume, pour yourself a glass of Templeton Rye, and get ready to fall in love with the Hawkeye State all over again.

1. “The Drycleaner From Des Moines” by Joni Mitchell

“The Drycleaner From Des Moines” is a jazz-infused track from Joni Mitchell’s 1979 album Mingus, which was a collaboration with bassist Charles Mingus. The song paints a vivid picture of a casino scene where the protagonist is trying her luck at the slots and tables but consistently loses. She observes a man, a dry cleaner from Des Moines, who seems to have incredible luck, winning at every game he plays. The song’s fast jazz riffs and Mitchell’s acrobatic vocals contribute to its urban sound, which is somewhat unexpected for a song referencing Iowa.

2. “Update From Iowa” by Smitty Spread Love

Released in 2020, “Update From Iowa” by Smitty Spread Love is a rap song that reflects on the tumultuous events of that year. The song starts with Smitty mentioning how he can no longer drive Uber due to the pandemic, prompting him and his family to drive to Iowa seeking a better situation. However, the song illustrates that being in Iowa doesn’t shield them from the nationwide chaos, touching on themes like COVID-19, job loss, and the struggle against police brutality. This track stands out as it is the only rap song in the curated list of Iowa-themed songs.

3. “Iowa Stubborn” by The Cast of The Music Man

“Iowa Stubborn” is from Meredith Willson’s 1957 musical The Music Man. It is the first sung number in the show, following a spoken opening. The song, performed in a schottische rhythm, introduces the audience to the reserved and stoic citizens of River City, Iowa. The lyrics humorously depict the Iowans’ “chip-on-the-shoulder” attitude and their stubbornness, while also highlighting their friendliness. The song mentions eight Iowa cities, including Des Moines and Mason City, and has been praised for capturing the dual nature of Iowan character—both welcoming and conservative.

4. “All I Owe Ioway” by The Cast of State Fair

“All I Owe Ioway” is a song from the Rodgers and Hammerstein musical State Fair. The song is performed by the Frake family as they express their pride and admiration for their home state of Iowa, following a win for their prized hog at the state fair. The lyrics celebrate the state’s agricultural bounty and the deep connection the characters feel to their Iowan roots. The song’s catchy chorus and playful wordplay make it a memorable tribute to Iowa, capturing the spirit of the heartland during its most celebrated era.

5. “Iowa” by Dar Williams

“Iowa” is a poignant folk song by Dar Williams from her 1996 album Mortal City. The song is a reflective narrative that explores themes of longing, unspoken emotions, and the constraints of small-town life. Williams sings about the picturesque hills of Iowa, which evoke a sense of wistful desire and introspection. The lyrics delve into the complexities of personal relationships and the societal pressures to conform, encapsulated in the line, “And at night we walk into our houses and burn.” The song also touches on the idea of suppressed passions and the yearning for a more open and expressive life. It has been interpreted as a commentary on the struggle to reconcile personal desires with societal expectations, making it resonate deeply with listeners who have experienced similar conflicts.

6. “The Iowa Song” by Josh Connor

“The Iowa Song” by Josh Connor is a heartfelt country tune that reminisces about the artist’s childhood in Iowa. The song is a nostalgic reflection on the simple, yet meaningful moments of growing up in the Hawkeye State. Connor’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of life in Iowa, celebrating its rural charm and the strong sense of community that characterizes the state. The melody is gentle and evocative, complementing the sentimental tone of the song. It serves as a tribute to the formative experiences and the enduring love for his home state.

7. “It Sure Can Get Cold In Des Moines” by Tom T. Hall

Tom T. Hall’s “It Sure Can Get Cold In Des Moines” is a country ballad that tells the story of a traveler who finds himself in Des Moines, Iowa, during a particularly harsh winter. The song captures the stark, cold reality of the Iowa weather, with temperatures dropping to 13 below zero. Through the narrative, Hall conveys a sense of loneliness and introspection as the protagonist navigates the challenges of being away from home in such a frigid environment. The lyrics highlight the isolation that can accompany travel and the longing for warmth and connection, both literally and metaphorically. Hall’s storytelling prowess shines through in this evocative depiction of a cold night in Des Moines.

8. “Stranded In Iowa” by Manfred Mann’s Earth Band

“Stranded In Iowa” is a track by Manfred Mann’s Earth Band, originally written by Mike Heron and first released by Heron in 1977. The song was later included in the Earth Band’s 1980 album Chance. The lyrics describe the feeling of being stuck in an unexpected and perhaps unwelcome place, with Iowa serving as the symbolic backdrop for this sense of entrapment. The chorus, which repeatedly mentions being “stranded in Iowa,” conveys a sense of frustration and longing for escape. The song’s rock instrumentation and melancholic tone underscore the themes of isolation and displacement, making it a memorable entry in the band’s discography.

9. “Iowa Corn Song” by Percy Faith

The “Iowa Corn Song” is a traditional tune that dates back to 1912, created by the Iowa Shriners and first published in 1921. Percy Faith, a renowned bandleader and orchestrator, performed a notable rendition of this song. The “Iowa Corn Song” is a celebratory anthem that praises Iowa’s agricultural heritage, particularly its corn production. The song has a catchy melody and is often associated with state pride, frequently performed at various Iowa events and ceremonies. The tradition of raising arms during the “tall corn” line in the chorus adds a communal and festive element to the song. Despite some viewing it as a “corny” representation of Iowa, it remains a beloved and enduring piece of the state’s musical heritage.

10. “Iowa Waltz” by Greg Brown

“Iowa Waltz” is the title track from Greg Brown’s 1981 album The Iowa Waltz. This folk song is a heartfelt homage to Brown’s home state, capturing the essence of Iowa’s rural landscape and the simple, yet profound, pleasures of life there. The waltz rhythm and Brown’s warm, evocative vocals create a nostalgic and intimate atmosphere. The lyrics reflect on the beauty of Iowa’s natural scenery and the deep sense of belonging that comes from living in such a place. The song has been praised for its lyrical simplicity and emotional depth, making it a standout track in Brown’s extensive catalog. The album itself was reissued in 1984 by Red House Records, marking the label’s first release and establishing Brown as a significant figure in contemporary folk music.

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Serena Whitfield

Serena Whitfield is the founder of PlaylistCurator.org. She’s a musician who writes songs for bands. She studied music at the University of Oxford and graduated with distinction. With her expertise, she knows how to review songs and understand what makes good and bad music. Every playlist on our platform is approved by her before publishing to maintain top-notch quality. If you want her to check out your song and maybe get featured on our playlist, submit your song for Serena to evaluate.