Introduction
“I Sang Dixie” is a poignant country ballad written and performed by Dwight Yoakam. Released in October 1988 as the second single from his album Buenas Noches from a Lonely Room, the song became Yoakam’s second number one hit on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart in 1989.
Yoakam initially recorded a demo of “I Sang Dixie” in 1981, which was later included in his 2002 boxed set, Reprise, Please, Baby, and the 2006 deluxe edition of Guitars, Cadillacs, Etc., Etc.
The song’s success contributed to the acclaim of Buenas Noches from a Lonely Room, an album noted for its exploration of themes like heartbreak and redemption. This period marked a high point in Yoakam’s career, solidifying his reputation as a leading figure in country music.
“I Sang Dixie” remains a significant work in Yoakam’s discography, showcasing his ability to blend traditional country sounds with compelling storytelling. Its enduring resonance with audiences underscores its status as a classic in the genre.
Video
Lyrics
I sang Dixie
As he died
People just walked on by
As I cried
The bottle had robbed him
Of all his Rebel pride
So I sang Dixie
As he died
Said way down yonder
In the land of cotton
Old times there
Ain’t near as rotten
As they are
On this damned old L.A. street
Then he drew a dying breath
Laid his head ‘gainst my chest
Please Lord, take his soul
Back home to Dixie
And I sang Dixie
As he died
People just walked on by
As I cried
The bottle had robbed him
Of all his Rebel pride
So I sang Dixie
As he died
He said
“Listen to me son while you still can”
“Run back home to that Southern land!”
“Don’t you see what life here has done to me?”
Then he closed those old blue eyes
Fell limp against my side
No more pain
Now he’s safe back home in Dixie
And I sang Dixie
As he died
People just walked on by
As I cried
The bottle had robbed him
Of all his Rebel pride
So I sang Dixie
As he died
I sang Dixie
As he died