State Songs of the United States: An Annotated Anthology is essential for musicians, historians, or librarians interested in the words, lyrics, and historical background of the songs that symbolize our individual states. This easy-to-use reference includes many famous state songs that were written by such well-known songwriters and musicians as Stephen Foster, Andy Razaf, Lucky Roberts, Hoagy Carmichael, Al Piantadosi, and Guy Miller. Full of information on the official and unofficial songs of the 50 states, State Songs of the United States includes:


historical annotations for 69 official and unofficial state songs, including "Yankee Doodle," "Georgia on My Mind," and the "Tennessee Waltz"

lyrics and music for 48 of the songs listed, such as "Yellow Rose of Texas" and "Home on the Range"

more than one official song for 46 of the states, including Arkansas, California, Indiana, New Hampshire, and MontanaAs part of the historical background, State Songs of the United States informs you as to when a song was written, who wrote it, and what musician composed the music for it. The only anthology of American song presented from an academic point of view, this reference also covers when and why official songs became adopted by their respective states. After reading this anthology, you will discover how the lyrics of our state songs reflect the period in which they were written and why many lyrics have been changed since, for reasons such as racial or gender prejudice. State Songs of the United States offers you a unique look at music, America's past, and the pride of our 50 states.