10 Alabama-themed songs you need on your summer playlist

Every summer we have the same conversation—”Is this the song of the summer?” But the song of the summer is fleeting. We typically don’t remember it after that summer, and when we do, it feels dated—”We listened to this in 2024?”

That’s why I wanted to make a timeless summer playlist for Alabama. I’m starting with 10 songs that are either:

• Written/performed by an artist from Alabama
• Written about Alabama
• The vibes are distinctly Alabama (but other deep South states might resonate)
• All of the above

Come along for the first 10 songs and how you can help add to the playlist.

The first 10 songs

1. Dixieland Delight by Alabama

Despite saying the song is set in Tennessee at least three times, the people of Alabama have fully reclaimed “Dixieland Delight” from our neighbors up north.

UA students have a special chant that goes along with the chorus, too. T-Town sports bars come alive when the song plays, especially on gameday when the Tide is rolling.

2. Half The City by St. Paul & the Broken Bones

Forged in the vibrant Birmingham music scene, St. Paul & the Broken Bones continue to rise in the charts—and in Alabamian’s hearts. Sounds from organs, trumpets and bold vocal stylings make “Half the City” a hit.

3. Wondering Why by the Red Clay Strays

It’s only fitting to include the Red Clay Strays‘ first viral hit on our quintessential Alabama playlist. These Mobile natives have taken the music scene by storm since the song first blew up, and they’re doing the Yellowhammer State proud.

4. Alabama Rain by Jim Croce

Jim Croce is most decidedly a Yankee (born in Philly, to be precise), yet his folksy voice crooning over Alabama’s pop-up showers and wondering where love went wrong has resonated with us Southerners for decades now.

5. Sweet Home Alabama by Lynard Skynard

A song so exemplary of Alabama, our state tourism board is even called “Sweet Home Alabama.” From that first guitar riff, folks drop off any conversation and get to singing along.

I have it on good authority that Auburn and Alabama students add a chant to this song, too.

6. Alabama Pines by Jason Isbell and The 400 Unit

Born just two miles from the Alabama/Tennessee line, we’re happy to lay claim to Jason Isbell and his musical stylings that’ll have you wishing for the fresh air of North Alabama.

7. Stars Fell on Alabama by Jimmy Buffett

While not technically from Alabama, Jimmy Buffett claimed himself a hometown boy—and the feeling’s mutual. That’s why his cover of “Stars Fell on Alabama” made our list.

Ever wondered what it feels like to fall in love on a sticky-hot Alabama summer night? Give this a listen.

8. Alabama Sundown by Dolly Parton

While not technically from Alabama, Dolly Parton is the South’s sweetheart. Her twangy voice and yearning lyrics perfectly capture what it feels like to be homesick for those coastal Alabama sunsets.

9. Hold On by Alabama Shakes

Soulful lyrics and sound? Check. Groovy bassline and drum fills? Check. A sing-in-the-shower chorus? Check. Hold On by Alabama Shakes has absolutely every ingredient to make the ultimate summer anthem.

10. Down in Alabama by Muscadine Bloodline

Looking for a song that’ll make you cry over how beautiful the Alabama coastline is? Down in Alabama by Muscadine Bloodline needs to be next in your queue.

These Mobile natives capture a similar feeling to Dolly’s “Alabama Sundown”—a longing for Alabama’s unique and beautiful coastline.

Help build the playlist

As I’m sure you can imagine, building out a playlist that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of Alabama is a huge task. That’s why I want your help building out this list. You have two ways to do just that:

• Find this post on our Facebook and comment your song there.
• Email me directly: liv@thebamabuzz.com

What songs do you want to see added to the playlist? Let us know on Instagram, Facebook or LinkedIn!