Virginia is a state with a rich and storied history, filled with beautiful landscapes, diverse communities, and countless memories. From the rolling hills of the Blue Ridge Mountains to the bustling streets of Richmond, Virginia has something to offer for everyone. Music has always been a powerful way to capture the essence of a place, and there are countless songs that explore the theme of Virginia. In this article, we’ll be taking a look at the “Top 20 Songs About Virginia“, exploring some of the most meaningful and impactful songs that capture the spirit of this historic state. Whether you’re a native Virginian, or simply looking for a playlist to help you discover the state’s rich musical heritage, this list of “Top 20 Songs About Virginia” is a must-read. With a diverse mix of genres, moods, and themes, these songs are a celebration of Virginia’s unique identity, and a reminder of the power of music to capture the essence of a place.
1. “Sweet Virginia” by The Rolling Stones
“Sweet Virginia” is a classic rock song written and recorded by the legendary band, The Rolling Stones. It was released in 1972 and is featured on their album “Exile on Main St.” The song showcases the band’s signature bluesy sound, with Keith Richards’ driving guitar riffs and Mick Jagger’s soulful vocals. The lyrics of “Sweet Virginia” paint a picture of a restless traveler who longs for the comfort of home, specifically a sweet Virginia woman. The song is characterized by its upbeat, country-inspired rhythm, which provides a contrast to the melancholy nature of the lyrics. With its catchy melody and upbeat energy, “Sweet Virginia” remains a fan favorite and continues to be a staple of classic rock radio to this day.
2. “Virginia Plain” by Roxy Music
“Virginia Plain” is a classic art rock song by the legendary British band, Roxy Music. It was released in 1972 as the band’s debut single and quickly became a hit in the UK. The song features Bryan Ferry’s distinctive and charismatic vocals, which are layered over a pulsating rhythm section and a driving guitar riff. The lyrics of “Virginia Plain” are cryptic and abstract, touching on themes of desire, freedom, and nostalgia. The song’s combination of futuristic, avant-garde soundscapes and catchy, upbeat melody has made it a standout track in the Roxy Music catalog and a defining moment in the development of art rock. With its iconic sound and enduring popularity, “Virginia Plain” remains a touchstone of the genre and continues to inspire new generations of musicians.
3. “Meet Virginia” by Train
“Meet Virginia” is a popular song by the American rock band Train. It was released as the lead single from their second studio album, “Drops of Jupiter” in 2001. The song features upbeat, energetic rock instrumentals combined with lead singer Pat Monahan’s powerful vocals. “Meet Virginia” is an upbeat, positive love song that speaks about a chance encounter with a girl named Virginia and the deep connection the singer feels with her. The lyrics are filled with vivid imagery and a longing for a deeper connection with this mysterious woman. The song’s catchy chorus, upbeat tempo, and memorable lyrics make it a staple of Train’s discography and a fan favorite to this day.
4. “Virginia” by Tori Amos
“Virginia” is a song by American singer-songwriter Tori Amos. It is a ballad that features Amos’s signature piano-driven instrumentals and powerful vocals. The song is a deeply personal and introspective piece that reflects on the singer’s relationship with her mother. The lyrics explore themes of guilt, regret, and the complexity of family relationships. The song is characterized by its emotional intensity, raw vulnerability, and the haunting beauty of Amos’s voice. Despite its heavy themes, “Virginia” remains a standout track in Amos’s extensive discography and a testament to her exceptional songwriting abilities.
5. “Carry Me Back to Ol Virginia” by Jerry Lee Lewis
“Carry Me Back to Old Virginia” is a song performed by the legendary rock and roll artist Jerry Lee Lewis. It is a country-inspired ballad that features Lewis’s signature piano playing and soulful vocals. The song is a nostalgic look back at the singer’s memories of his home state of Virginia, with lyrics that paint a picture of the rolling hills, quiet towns, and warm memories of his youth. The song is characterized by its simple, understated instrumentals, and Lewis’s emotive delivery. Despite being a departure from Lewis’s more well-known rock and roll hits, “Carry Me Back to Old Virginia” showcases the versatility and range of this musical icon.
6. “Hills of West Virginia” by Phil Ochs
“The Hills of West Virginia” is a song by American folk singer-songwriter Phil Ochs. It is a protest song that addresses the poverty and social injustices faced by the people of West Virginia. The song is a powerful commentary on the exploitation of the state’s natural resources and the suffering of its people, with lyrics that are both bleak and hopeful. The song’s simple acoustic guitar and haunting harmonies are a testament to Ochs’s songwriting skills, and his commitment to using music as a tool for social change. Despite its serious subject matter, “The Hills of West Virginia” is a memorable and impactful song that remains relevant to this day.
7. “Old Virginia” by America
“Old Virginia” is a song by the American folk rock band America. It is a upbeat, acoustic-driven track that celebrates the beauty and history of the state of Virginia. The lyrics paint a picture of rolling hills, picturesque landscapes, and the rich heritage of the state, as the singer reflects on his memories of the place. The song is characterized by its catchy melody, upbeat tempo, and tight harmonies. Despite its light-hearted nature, “Old Virginia” is a charming and memorable tribute to one of the United States’ most storied states.
8. “East Virginia Blues” by Pete Seeger
“East Virginia Blues” is a traditional folk song that was popularized by American folk singer Pete Seeger. The song is a classic example of the traditional style of folk music, with its simple melody, upbeat tempo, and storytelling lyrics. The song tells the story of a man who is longing for his love in East Virginia, and reflects the longing and homesickness that many people feel for the places and people they love. The song is characterized by Seeger’s powerful and emotive vocals, as well as his skill as an interpreter of traditional folk music. Despite its traditional roots, “East Virginia Blues” remains a relevant and timeless song that continues to be celebrated and performed by folk musicians today.
9. “Virginia Gang” by Katie Noel
“Virginia Gang” is a song by American singer-songwriter Katie Noel. The song is a lighthearted, upbeat track that celebrates the beauty and energy of the state of Virginia. The lyrics describe the joys of living in Virginia and the strong sense of community that exists among its residents. The song is characterized by its catchy melody, upbeat tempo, and positive lyrics, making it an upbeat and celebratory tribute to the state. With its infectious energy and catchy hooks, “Virginia Gang” is sure to get listeners tapping their feet and singing along.
10. “Leave Virginia Alone” by Rod Stewart
“Leave Virginia Alone” is a song by Scottish rock singer Rod Stewart. The song is a mid-tempo ballad that reflects on a past relationship set against the backdrop of the state of Virginia. The lyrics describe a man who is struggling to let go of a past love and move on from the memories that haunt him. Despite its melancholic tone, the song is characterized by its haunting melody and powerful vocals, making it a moving and emotional ballad. With its timeless themes of love, loss, and moving on, “Leave Virginia Alone” continues to be a popular and beloved song in Rod Stewart’s catalog.
11. “My Old Virginia Home” by The Carter Family
“My Old Virginia Home” is a song by The Carter Family, a pioneering American country music group. The song is a traditional ballad that reflects on the history and culture of Virginia, with lyrics that evoke a sense of longing for a simpler time and place. The song is characterized by its mournful melody and tender lyrics, making it a poignant tribute to the state and its people. With its timeless themes of home, heritage, and nostalgia, “My Old Virginia Home” continues to be a beloved and timeless classic of American country music.
12. “Our Great Virginia” by Mike Greenly
“Our Great Virginia” is a song by Mike Greenly, an American singer-songwriter and musician. The song is an upbeat, patriotic tribute to the state of Virginia, with lyrics that celebrate its history, culture, and people. The song is characterized by its upbeat melody and positive lyrics, making it a rousing and celebratory anthem. With its themes of pride, patriotism, and love for one’s home state, “Our Great Virginia” is a joyful and uplifting tribute to the Commonwealth of Virginia.
13. “Virginia Moon” by Foo Fighters
“Virginia Moon” is a song by Foo Fighters, an American rock band. The song is a mid-tempo, atmospheric ballad that reflects on the feelings of longing and loss. The lyrics paint a picture of a person looking back on a relationship that has ended, with a sense of regret and sadness. The song is characterized by its delicate melody and introspective lyrics, making it a poignant and emotional piece of music. With its themes of heartbreak and loss, “Virginia Moon” is a melancholic but beautiful song that showcases the depth and sensitivity of the Foo Fighters’ songwriting.
14. “Virginia Tech” by Lil Flip
“Virginia Tech” is a song by Lil Flip, an American rapper. The song is a tribute to the Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, commonly known as Virginia Tech, and the victims of the April 16, 2007, shooting that took place there. The lyrics of the song pay homage to the victims and express condolences to their families. The song is characterized by its emotive lyrics and soulful beats, making it a moving and heartfelt tribute. With its themes of loss, remembrance, and solidarity, “Virginia Tech” is a poignant and powerful song that honors the memory of those affected by the tragedy.
15. “I Went Down To Virginia” by Frank Sinatra
“I Went Down To Virginia” is a song by Frank Sinatra, an American singer and actor. The song is a romantic ballad that tells the story of a man who traveled to Virginia in search of love. The lyrics describe his journey and his experiences as he searches for the perfect woman. The song is characterized by its upbeat melody and tender lyrics, making it a lighthearted and charming love song. With its themes of adventure and romance, “I Went Down To Virginia” is a classic love song that embodies the essence of old-fashioned charm and whimsy.
16. “Virginia Avenue” by Tom Waits
“Virginia Avenue” is a song by Tom Waits, an American singer-songwriter and actor. The song is a slow and mellow ballad that paints a picture of a street in a city, most likely referring to the street of the same name in Los Angeles. The lyrics describe the street’s atmosphere and the people who live and work there, painting a vivid and melancholic picture of city life. The song is characterized by its moody instrumentation and poignant lyrics, making it a nostalgic and introspective piece. With its themes of urban life and the human condition, “Virginia Avenue” is a thought-provoking and atmospheric song that invites listeners to reflect on the complexities of city life.
17. “The Ghost of Virginia” by Justin Townes Earle
“The Ghost of Virginia” is a song by Justin Townes Earle, an American singer-songwriter and guitarist. The song is a mid-tempo, folksy ballad that tells the story of a man who is haunted by the memory of a lost love in Virginia. The lyrics are filled with vivid imagery and rich storytelling, creating a melancholic and nostalgic atmosphere. The song features haunting guitar work, delicate mandolin, and Justin Townes Earle’s signature storytelling style, making it an emotionally powerful piece. The theme of love and loss is common in country and folk music, and “The Ghost of Virginia” is no exception. It is a heart-wrenching tribute to the memories and emotions that linger long after a relationship has ended.
18. “West Virginia Fantasies” by Chicago
“West Virginia Fantasies” is a song by the American rock band Chicago. This upbeat and energetic tune showcases the band’s signature blend of rock, jazz, and classical music, with a strong emphasis on horns and complex musical arrangements. The song is a musical tribute to the state of West Virginia, with lyrics that paint a lively picture of the beauty and wonder of the region. The lively rhythm and catchy melody make this an upbeat and enjoyable listening experience, with a celebratory feel that highlights the richness of West Virginia’s culture and heritage. Overall, “West Virginia Fantasies” is a fun and upbeat track that showcases Chicago’s musical prowess and love for the state of West Virginia.
19. “Virginia Is For Lovers” by Jordin Sparks
“Virginia Is For Lovers” is a song by American recording artist Jordin Sparks. This upbeat and cheerful pop ballad is a love song dedicated to the state of Virginia. The lyrics describe the singer’s feelings of love and affection for Virginia, with a focus on the state’s natural beauty and charm. The melody is catchy and upbeat, with a upbeat rhythm that makes the song instantly likable. The instrumentation is a mix of acoustic and electronic elements, with a strong focus on keyboard and guitar, creating a lively and upbeat sound. Overall, “Virginia Is For Lovers” is a charming and upbeat track that showcases Jordin Sparks’ vocal ability and love for the state of Virginia.
20. “Sweet Virginia Breeze” by Robbin Thompson
“Sweet Virginia Breeze” is a song by American singer-songwriter Robbin Thompson. This nostalgic track reflects on the beauty and simplicity of life in Virginia. The lyrics describe the singer’s longing for the simpler times of his childhood, with a focus on the natural beauty of the state and the sweet, refreshing breeze that seems to come with it. The melody is mellow and contemplative, with a folksy feel that gives the song a timeless quality. The instrumentation is acoustic-based, with a focus on guitar and harmonica, creating a warm and inviting sound. Overall, “Sweet Virginia Breeze” is a charming and nostalgic tribute to the state of Virginia, capturing the essence of its natural beauty and the warm memories of its people.
April Johnson is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
