Sweet Home Alabama

Lynyrd Skynyrd

About Sweet Home Alabama

"Sweet Home Alabama" is a song by Southern rock band Lynyrd Skynyrd that first appeared in 1974 on their second album, Second Helping. It reached number 8 on the US chart in 1974 and was the band's second hit single. The song was written in reply to "Southern Man" and "Alabama" by Neil Young; Young is named in the song's lyrics.


Year:
1999
4:43
45 
#1

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Big wheels keep on turning
Carry me home to see my kin
Singing songs about the south-land
I miss 'ole' 'bamy once again and I think it's a sin

Well I heard Mister Young sing about her
Well I heard ole Neil put her down
Well, I hope Neil Young will remember
A southern man don't need him around anyhow

Sweet home Alabama
Where the skies are so blue
Sweet home Alabama
Lord, I'm coming home to you

In Birmingham they love the Gov'nor, boo-hoo-hoo
Now we all did what we could do
Now Watergate does not bother me
Does your conscience bother you, tell the truth

Sweet home Alabama
Where the skies are so blue
Sweet home Alabama
Lord, I'm coming home to you, here I come

Now Muscle Shoals has got the Swampers
And they've been known to pick a song or two (yes they do)
Lord they get me off so much
They pick me up when I'm feeling blue, now how bout you?

Sweet home Alabama
Where the skies are so blue
Sweet home Alabama
Lord, I'm coming home to you

Sweet home Alabama, oh sweet home
Where the skies are so blue and the governor's true
Sweet home Alabama
Lord, I'm coming home to you

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Lynyrd Skynyrd

Lynyrd Skynyrd (pronounced /ˌlɛnərd ˈskɪnərd/ LEN-ərd-SKIN-ərd) is an American rock band best known for popularizing the Southern hard rock genre during the 1970s. Originally formed in 1964 as the "Noble Five" in Jacksonville, Florida, the band rose to worldwide recognition on the basis of its driving live performances and signature tunes "Sweet Home Alabama," and "Free Bird." At the peak of their success, three members died in an airplane crash in 1977, putting an abrupt end to the band's most popular incarnation. more »

22 fans

Written by: Ronnie Van Zant, Gary Robert Rossington, Edward C. King

Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


12 facts about this song

Song Release
"Sweet Home Alabama" was released by Lynyrd Skynyrd in 1974 as part of their second album, "Second Helping".
Commercial Success
The song achieved great commercial success, reaching number 8 on the US charts in 1974.
Songwriting
The song was written by band members Ed King, Gary Rossington, and Ronnie Van Zant. King was also the one who came up with the famous guitar riff.
Response to Neil Young
This hit is regarded as an answer to two songs by Neil Young, "Southern Man" and "Alabama", which dealt with themes of racism and slavery in the American South.
First Verse Melody
The melody of the first verse is identical to "Werewolves of London" by Warren Zevon, released in 1978.
King's Countdown
Before the start of each chorus, guitarist Ed King's voice can be heard counting "1, 2, 3...". This wasn't originally planned to remain in the mix but was left in by accident and became an iconic part of the song.
Studio Version's Closing Remarks
In the closing remarks of the studio version of the song, Van Zant can be heard saying "Montgomery got the answer", which is a reference to the city of Montgomery in Alabama.
Tribute to Alabama
The song pays tribute to the State of Alabama. Over the years this southern rock anthem has become an unofficial anthem for the state itself.
Cover Versions
The song has been covered by numerous bands and artists over the years, including Kid Rock who sampled the song in his 2008 hit "All Summer Long".
Film and TV Appearances
"Sweet Home Alabama" has frequently been used in various films and television shows, such as the 2002 romantic comedy with the same name, "Sweet Home Alabama".
Political Usage
Despite the band's objections, the song has often been used politically. It was played at the 1996 Republican National Convention with lead singer Johnny Van Zant's approval.
Cultural Impact
The song is considered a classic example of Southern rock and is renowned for its catchy guitar riff and singable chorus. It remains a staple on classic rock radio stations and at Lynyrd Skynyrd concerts to this day.

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    Sweet Home Alabama

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    Top Hot 100 Songs 1974

    Billboard #8


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