As a native South Carolinian, I’ve always felt that our state’s rich history, diverse landscapes, and unique culture are best captured through the power of music. From the rolling hills of the Upstate to the sun-soaked shores of the Lowcountry, South Carolina has inspired countless artists to pen melodies that resonate with the very essence of the Palmetto State.
In this playlist, I’ll take you on a musical journey through 14 songs that celebrate South Carolina in all its glory.
Contents
- 1. “Carolina Girls” – General Johnson
- 2. “She’s Carolina” – Cody Webb
- 3. “South Carolina Low Country” – Josh Turner
- 4. “Waltz for a Girl From South Carolina” – Brett Shady
- 5. “South Carolina” – The Outlaws
- 6. “Coast of Carolina” – Jimmy Buffett
- 7. “Beers and Sunshine” – Darius Rucker
- 8. “Sumter County Friday Night” – Lee Brice
- 9. “Gone to Carolina” – Shooter Jennings
- 10. “Just a Little Bit South of North Carolina” – Dean Martin
- 11. “Dancin’, Shaggin’ on The Boulevard” – Alabama
- 12. “South Carolina Blues” – Junior League Band
- 13. “Charleston, South Carolina” – Lovie Austin and Her Blues Serenaders
- 14. “Carolina Can” – Chase Rice
- Submit Your Song to This Playlist
1. “Carolina Girls” – General Johnson
“Carolina Girls” is a classic beach music song performed by General Johnson & the Chairmen of the Board. Released in 1980, the song celebrates the charm and allure of women from the Carolinas. With its catchy chorus and upbeat rhythm, it became a staple in the beach music genre, often played at events and gatherings in the Carolinas. The lyrics emphasize the beauty, personality, and unique qualities of Carolina girls, comparing them favorably to women from other regions like California and New York. The song has become a cultural anthem, symbolizing pride and admiration for the women of the Carolinas.
2. “She’s Carolina” – Cody Webb
“She’s Carolina” by Cody Webb is a heartfelt country song that paints a vivid picture of a quintessential South Carolina girl. The lyrics describe her as friendly, fun-loving, and deeply connected to the state’s culture and lifestyle. References to local sports teams like the Gamecocks and Tigers, as well as iconic symbols like Palmetto trees, highlight the song’s strong ties to South Carolina. The song is both a love letter to a girl and a tribute to the state, capturing the essence of Southern hospitality and charm.
3. “South Carolina Low Country” – Josh Turner
Josh Turner’s “South Carolina Low Country” is a nostalgic ode to the region where he grew up. The song, featured on his album Everything is Fine, reflects on Turner’s experiences and memories from the Low Country area of South Carolina. The lyrics mention singing bluegrass and country songs from Hannah to Charleston, working in the warm sunshine, and the natural beauty of the region, including Palmetto trees and the Atlantic breeze. The song also pays homage to historical figures like Wade Hampton and The Swamp Fox, emphasizing the deep-rooted cultural heritage of South Carolina.
4. “Waltz for a Girl From South Carolina” – Brett Shady
“Waltz for a Girl From South Carolina” by Brett Shady is a folk ballad that beautifully captures the essence of South Carolina through its melodic guitar and heartfelt lyrics. Released in 2012, the song tells the story of a man reminiscing about a girl from South Carolina, evoking a sense of longing and nostalgia. The waltz beat and emotive storytelling create a vivid portrait of the state’s scenic beauty and the deep emotional connection the protagonist has with the girl and the place. This song is a poignant tribute to the charm and allure of South Carolina.
5. “South Carolina” – The Outlaws
“South Carolina” by The Outlaws is a Southern rock song that captures the spirit and essence of the state. The song’s lyrics reflect a deep appreciation for South Carolina’s natural beauty and laid-back lifestyle. The Outlaws, known for their blend of rock and country influences, use this track to paint a vivid picture of the state’s landscapes, from its coastal regions to its rural heartlands. The song is imbued with a sense of nostalgia and longing, making it a heartfelt tribute to South Carolina.
6. “Coast of Carolina” – Jimmy Buffett
“Coast of Carolina” by Jimmy Buffett is a mellow, reflective song that evokes the serene and picturesque coastal regions of the Carolinas. Known for his laid-back, beach-themed music, Buffett uses this track to convey a sense of peace and contentment found along the Carolina coast. The song’s lyrics mention specific coastal imagery and experiences, creating a vivid mental picture of life by the sea. It also touches on themes of love and loss, adding a layer of emotional depth to the picturesque setting. The song is a favorite among Buffett fans for its soothing melody and evocative lyrics.
7. “Beers and Sunshine” – Darius Rucker
“Beers and Sunshine” by Darius Rucker is a feel-good country anthem that celebrates the simple pleasures of life, particularly in the context of South Carolina. Released in 2020, the song was co-written by Rucker and emphasizes the importance of relaxation and enjoying the moment, especially during challenging times. The lyrics focus on the joys of drinking beer, soaking up the sun, and appreciating the laid-back Southern lifestyle. The song became a hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Country Airplay chart, and resonated with listeners for its upbeat message and catchy tune.
8. “Sumter County Friday Night” – Lee Brice
“Sumter County Friday Night” by Lee Brice is a country song that captures the essence of small-town life in Sumter County, South Carolina. The song paints a picture of typical Friday night activities in a rural Southern town, including football games, gatherings with friends, and other community events. Brice’s lyrics celebrate the camaraderie and sense of community that characterize life in Sumter County. The song’s upbeat tempo and relatable themes make it a favorite for anyone who has experienced the charm of small-town Southern life6.
9. “Gone to Carolina” – Shooter Jennings
“Gone to Carolina” by Shooter Jennings is a poignant song that delves into themes of restlessness and the search for belonging. The lyrics describe a person who feels a deep sense of nostalgia and longing for Carolina, symbolizing a place of solace and new beginnings. The song evokes imagery of the sweet southern rain and the long black train, which represent the journey towards finding peace and a sense of home. The emotional connection to Carolina is further highlighted by the desire to experience the natural elements and the deep emotional ties to someone significant in the protagonist’s life. Overall, the song portrays a journey of self-discovery and the yearning for a place where one truly belongs.
10. “Just a Little Bit South of North Carolina” – Dean Martin
“Just a Little Bit South of North Carolina” by Dean Martin is a classic tune that captures the charm and simplicity of life in South Carolina. The song’s lyrics express a longing to be in a little brown shack in South Carolina, where someone special awaits. The melody and Martin’s smooth vocals create a nostalgic and warm atmosphere, making it a timeless piece that celebrates the allure of the Southern state. The song’s simple yet evocative lyrics paint a vivid picture of the peaceful and welcoming environment just south of North Carolina.
11. “Dancin’, Shaggin’ on The Boulevard” – Alabama
“Dancin’, Shaggin’ on the Boulevard” by Alabama is a celebratory song that pays homage to the band’s musical roots in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Released in 1997, the song reflects on the band’s early days playing in the local clubs and the vibrant beach music scene. The lyrics offer a nostalgic stroll down memory lane, capturing the essence of the carefree and fun atmosphere of Myrtle Beach. The song’s light and summery feel, combined with its skilled production and warm performance by Randy Owen, make it a beloved track that resonates with both longtime fans and new listeners. The music video, filmed in Myrtle Beach, further emphasizes the song’s connection to South Carolina’s coastal culture.
12. “South Carolina Blues” – Junior League Band
“South Carolina Blues” by Junior League Band is an energetic and fun tune with a slight bluegrass influence. Released in 2008, the song captures the essence of the blues genre while infusing it with a youthful and vibrant sound. The lyrics explore typical blues themes such as life’s challenges and complex love, but the band’s unique instrumentation and the lead singer’s clear, youthful voice give the song a fresh and lively feel. The song reflects elements of South Carolina’s culture and music, making it a fitting tribute to the state’s spirited essence.
13. “Charleston, South Carolina” – Lovie Austin and Her Blues Serenaders
“Charleston, South Carolina” by Lovie Austin and Her Blues Serenaders is a lively jazz and blues song recorded in April 1924 in Chicago. Featuring vocals by Priscilla Stewart, the song captures the vibrant and dynamic spirit of Charleston, South Carolina, during the Jazz Age. The lyrics celebrate the Charleston dance, which was immensely popular at the time, and highlight the cultural significance of the city as a hub of music and dance. The chorus, “Charleston! Charleston! Made in Carolina,” emphasizes the pride and joy associated with the dance and the city itself. Lovie Austin, a pioneering female jazz musician, composer, and bandleader, was known for her significant contributions to early blues and jazz music. This song is a testament to the lively and influential music scene of Charleston and its impact on American culture.
14. “Carolina Can” – Chase Rice
“Carolina Can” by Chase Rice is a reflective country song from his 2014 album Ignite the Night. The song is a heartfelt homage to Rice’s roots in North Carolina, capturing the essence of his upbringing and the deep personal connections he has with the state. The lyrics reminisce about various aspects of his childhood and young adulthood, such as laying pennies on railroad tracks, sneaking off to chew tobacco, and sharing a Blue Ribbon beer with his father.
The song also touches on significant life events, including the loss of his father and the pursuit of his musical dreams, which have taken him far from home. Despite the physical distance, Rice finds solace and a sense of identity in his memories of Carolina, as expressed in the recurring line, “I need someone to remind me who I am, oh, Carolina can.” The song’s evocative imagery and emotional depth make it a poignant tribute to the enduring influence of his home state.
Submit Your Song to This Playlist
Do you have a track or song you’d like to feature on this playlist? If so, please fill out the form below for our evaluation.
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.