Georgia On My Mind
Carmichael Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
The whole day through
Just an old sweet song keeps Georgia on my mind
Georgia on my mind
Each day, Georgia
A song of you
Comes as sweet and clear as moonlight through the pines
Other eyes smile tenderly
Still, in peaceful dreams, I see
The road leads back to you, to you, my beautiful Georgia
Georgia, no peace I find
Just an old sweet song keeps Georgia on my mind
Oh, Georgia, Georgia, no peace I find
Just an old sweet song keeps Georgia on my mind
The lyrics of Ray Charles' iconic song "Georgia On My Mind" describe the enduring love and longing for the state of Georgia. The song captures the sentimentality and emotional connection one feels towards a place that holds deep personal significance.
The repetition of the phrase "Georgia on my mind" throughout the song emphasizes the powerful hold that Georgia has on the singer's thoughts and heart. It suggests that, no matter where the singer is or what they are doing, their thoughts always return to their beloved Georgia.
The mention of an "old sweet song" signifies the nostalgia and comfort that the memories of Georgia bring. It represents the way in which music can transport us back to specific moments and evoke deep emotions. The comparison of the song to moonlight through the pines adds to the imagery of serenity and beauty associated with Georgia.
The reference to other arms and other eyes reaching out to the singer suggests that they may be tempted by other opportunities or distractions, yet despite these temptations, they still long for Georgia. The mention of peaceful dreams and the road leading back to Georgia indicates that the singer's true happiness lies in returning to their home state.
Overall, "Georgia On My Mind" is a song that celebrates the enduring affection and sense of belonging that one can feel towards their home state. It beautifully captures the way a place can become ingrained in our identity, and how the memories of that place can bring both comfort and a longing for home.
Line by Line Meaning
Georgia, Georgia
Referring to the state of Georgia, a place that holds deep significance and memories.
The whole day through
Constantly and without interruption, throughout the entire day.
Just an old sweet song keeps Georgia on my mind
A nostalgic and comforting melody serves as a reminder and keeps Georgia present in my thoughts.
Georgia on my mind
Georgia occupies my thoughts and emotions.
Each day, Georgia
Every day, Georgia remains an important part of my consciousness.
A song of you
A melodic tribute dedicated to the essence and spirit of Georgia.
Comes as sweet and clear as moonlight through the pines
The song, like the serene moonlight shining through the tall pine trees, arrives in a sweet and pristine manner.
Other arms reach out to me
While others offer their support and affection,
Other eyes smile tenderly
And different individuals express kindness and warmth through their gazes.
Still, in peaceful dreams, I see
Nevertheless, in tranquil reveries, I envision
The road leads back to you, to you, my beautiful Georgia
That the path inevitably guides me back to the cherished and stunning land of Georgia.
Georgia, no peace I find
Despite my yearning for contentment, I cannot achieve inner peace.
Just an old sweet song keeps Georgia on my mind
But the solace of that familiar, soothing melody maintains Georgia's presence in my thoughts.
Oh, Georgia, Georgia, no peace I find
Oh, Georgia, Georgia, my search for tranquility remains fruitless.
Just an old sweet song keeps Georgia on my mind
Yet, the power of that cherished, melodic tune ensures Georgia's recurring presence in my thoughts.
Lyrics © Kanjian Music, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Written by: Hoagy Carmichael, Stuart Gorell
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
@tuxguys
Most associated with Brother Ray (and justifiably so), it's a treat to finally hear it by the genius that wrote it.
Thankyouthankyouthankyou.
(His descending vocal phrase at the end has perfectly in-tune half-steps, except for one or two perfectly-executed QUARTER TONES, where he needs an additional eighth-note to make the phrase-length work. This is astonishing.)
(Addendum, 6 years later:)
I did a little digging, and I believe that this is the first track from the following LP, with the following personnel:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hoagy_Sings_Carmichael
• Hoagy Carmichael – vocals
• Harry Edison, Conrad Gozzo, trumpet
• Jimmy Zito – bass trumpet
• Harry Klee, Art Pepper – alto saxophone
• Mort Friedman – tenor saxophone
• Marty Berman – baritone saxophone
• Jimmy Rowles – piano
• Al Hendrickson – guitar
• Joe Mondragon --bass
• Irving Cottler—drums
• Johnny Mandel – arranger, conductor
@tuxguys
Most associated with Brother Ray (and justifiably so), it's a treat to finally hear it by the genius that wrote it.
Thankyouthankyouthankyou.
(His descending vocal phrase at the end has perfectly in-tune half-steps, except for one or two perfectly-executed QUARTER TONES, where he needs an additional eighth-note to make the phrase-length work. This is astonishing.)
(Addendum, 6 years later:)
I did a little digging, and I believe that this is the first track from the following LP, with the following personnel:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hoagy_Sings_Carmichael
• Hoagy Carmichael – vocals
• Harry Edison, Conrad Gozzo, trumpet
• Jimmy Zito – bass trumpet
• Harry Klee, Art Pepper – alto saxophone
• Mort Friedman – tenor saxophone
• Marty Berman – baritone saxophone
• Jimmy Rowles – piano
• Al Hendrickson – guitar
• Joe Mondragon --bass
• Irving Cottler—drums
• Johnny Mandel – arranger, conductor
@goodjuju5301
Still the quintessential Hoagy fan....
@goodjuju5301
Cat got your tongue?
@kimeecleaton
Easy, I think. (Just tried it, did it first time.) But still very cool :)
@TruthSurge
actually, the two beats for "my" before "mind" he actually sang a quarter step. the first half of "my" is the half step above the root note then he goes down from that instead of holding that for some reason and hits a note in between the previous and root then lands on "mind" finally on the root note. Seems a mistake rather than intentional. But that's literally what he did. So no, not perfectly in tune half steps.
@steveslagle1859
just to point out this version has a great alto sax solo by Art Pepper, and they even modulate from Hoagys key of Bb to Eb for the Alto solo....played beautifully by Pepper,and then back to Bb--nice arrangement!
@markherron1407
Happy Birthday to Hoagy Carmichael REST IN POWER and Merry Christmas 🎄🎁⛄🎅🤶 Blessings and Hugs 💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜
@AlcyoneSong
So sweet he wrote this for his sister. This song hits different when you know who it was written for. Also given the loss of his baby sister I can see where he would be highly protective of her. Love it..
@jillfoley6389
A beautiful sunny day and this song sums up the day - sheer perfection.
@jorgebustos719
Maravillosa composición e interpretación