Unearthing the Inspiration: Hank Williams, Jr.‘s “Dixie on My Mind”
Step into the fascinating world of country music legend Hank Williams, Jr., where the genesis of one of his iconic songs, “Dixie on My Mind,” sprouted from an unexpected and memorable night in New York City. In 1981, Hank was slated to perform at the renowned “Lone Star Café,” nestled in the heart of Greenwich Village at 13th Street and Fifth Avenue. The Lone Star Café, now a part of history, welcomed a diverse range of talents, from rock and roll icons to blues maestros, folk music ensembles, and aspiring country stars seeking Manhattan’s embrace.
The evening unfolded in an unusual setting for the country crooner. The crowd was a tad more sophisticated than Hank’s usual audience, although some familiar faces graced the night, such as the actor Gary Busey and the New York Yankees’ relief pitcher, Rich “Goose” Gossage. The intimate size of the stage, where one could easily shake hands with the bartender while performing, did not sit well with Hank, and he openly admitted his disdain for the place.
Interestingly, during the gig, as the city lights of New York shimmered outside, Hank found himself yearning for his roots back in the South. His heart wandered to the sweet melodies of “Dixie,” and the very next day, he escaped to his sanctuary in Florida for some fishing escapades with Dickey Betts, a gifted guitarist from the Allman Brothers Band. Amidst the calming serenity of the fishing trip, Hank molded the essence of “Dixie on My Mind,” weaving together the lyrical core and captivating melody.
When the time was ripe, Hank recorded the song, but little did he know that it would spark a firestorm upon his return to the bustling streets of New York. His candid commentary on the Big Apple, while relatable to many, raised eyebrows and ruffled feathers. Hank’s references to New Yorkers as “squirrels” and “porcupines” didn’t sit well, causing a setback in airplay on the city’s two country radio stations of that time, both of which have since faded into history.
In a memorable twist, when Hank made a guest DJ appearance at WHN-AM, the station received a bomb threat, underscoring the intensity of emotions stirred by his controversial remarks. Unfazed, Hank took it in stride, recognizing that such reactions signaled his soaring popularity. Drawing parallels to the predicament Merle Haggard faced years prior, Hank mused, “That means you’re hot when that kind of stuff happens.”
In the end, “Dixie on My Mind” remains a timeless classic, etched into the hearts of country music enthusiasts worldwide. Its origin story, entwined with New York City’s charm and Hank’s unapologetic candor, adds to the allure of this unforgettable song, reminding us that inspiration can be found in the most unexpected corners of life’s journey. So, the next time you hear the soulful twang of “Dixie on My Mind,” remember the tale behind the tune and let yourself be carried away by its enchanting allure.
- Artist: Hank Williams Jr.
- Album: Rowdy
- Released: 1981
- Genre: Country
Lyrics
All the stations up here don’t sign off with Dixie
The way they did in sweet home Alabama
And the people here don’t sip Jack Daniels whiskey
The way they do in that Tennessee mountain land
I’ve always heard lots about the big apple
So I thought I’d come up here and see
But all I’ve seen so far is one big hassle
Wish I was camped out on the Okeechobee
If this is the promised land, I’ve had all I can stand
And I’m headed back below that Dixie line
No I just don’t fit in and I’ll never come back again
But I’m busted here with Dixie on my mind
Oh, I’m stuck up here and I got Dixie on my mind
These people never smile or say a word
They’re all too busy tryin’ to make an extra dime
Oh, I’d love to haul ’em all down around Spartanburg
And show ’em how to raise hell in Carolina
Oh, the things you know that I miss most of all
Is the freedom of the rivers and the pines
They don’t do much huntin’ and fishin’ up here, ya know
But I have met a few squirrels and one porcupine
Well if this is the promised land, I’ve had all I can stand
Wish I was down in Houston town tonight
Now I just don’t fit in and I’ll never come back again
I’m busted here with Dixie on my mind
Oh, I’m stuck up here and I got Dixie on my mind
