Songs about New Hampshire often celebrate the state’s picturesque landscapes, rich history, and the distinct New England charm that defines the region. New Hampshire’s natural beauty, from its scenic mountains, lakes, and forests to its quaint towns and rural countryside, serves as a muse for musicians to create melodies that capture the essence of the Granite State.
Many songs about New Hampshire reflect the state’s connection to outdoor activities, including hiking, skiing, and water sports, showcasing the state’s recreational opportunities. The White Mountains, Mount Washington, Lake Winnipesaukee, and the Lakes Region are popular references in these songs, highlighting the state’s stunning scenery.
New Hampshire’s historical significance, particularly its role in the American Revolution and the presence of iconic landmarks like the Old Man of the Mountain, often serve as inspiration for songs. The state’s small-town charm and New England traditions are also celebrated in music, conveying a sense of community and nostalgia.
Overall, songs about New Hampshire embody the state’s unique character and its blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and rich history. These musical tributes provide listeners with a glimpse into the heart of the New England state and offer a soundtrack for those who appreciate its distinct charm.
1. “Live Free Or Die” By Bill Morrissey
“Live Free or Die” is a song by the American folk musician Bill Morrissey. The song’s title references the state motto of New Hampshire, “Live Free or Die,” which reflects the spirit of individualism and independence associated with the state.
The lyrics of “Live Free or Die” capture the essence of New Hampshire, portraying a place where people value their freedom and the rugged, natural beauty of the state. The song conveys a sense of self-reliance and the idea that New Hampshire is a place where people can live life on their terms.
Bill Morrissey’s folk sound, characterized by his storytelling lyrics and acoustic guitar, creates an introspective and contemplative atmosphere. “Live Free or Die” is known for its themes of self-sufficiency and the celebration of the state’s motto.
While the song doesn’t delve into New Hampshire’s cultural or historical aspects in great detail, it serves as a musical tribute to the independent spirit and the values held dear by many in the state. “Live Free or Die” captures the essence of New Hampshire’s motto and the idea that the state is a place where individuals can live their lives freely and on their own terms, making it a meaningful and heartfelt song for those who appreciate the state’s character.
2. “Emperor Of New Hampshire” By James Parkington
“Emperor of New Hampshire” is a song by the American musician James Parkington. The title of the song is whimsical and imaginative, and while it references New Hampshire, it’s not specifically about the state or its history.
The lyrics of “Emperor of New Hampshire” seem to create a fictional or fantastical narrative where someone becomes an “emperor” of the state, imagining an alternate reality. The song may use New Hampshire as a symbolic setting for this imaginative story.
James Parkington’s musical style, characterized by its creativity and storytelling, creates an imaginative and lighthearted atmosphere. “Emperor of New Hampshire” is known for its whimsical and playful tone.
While the song may not provide a detailed exploration of New Hampshire’s cultural or historical aspects, it uses the state’s name to create a whimsical and fantastical narrative. “Emperor of New Hampshire” is an example of how music can playfully incorporate place names into imaginative and creative storytelling, offering a unique and unconventional perspective.
3. “New Hampshire” By Sonic Youth
“New Hampshire” is an instrumental track by the American alternative rock band Sonic Youth. While the song’s title references New Hampshire, it is an instrumental piece without lyrics. Instead, it relies on the band’s distinctive sound to convey its message and atmosphere.
Sonic Youth’s experimental and noise-influenced rock sound, characterized by dissonant guitar work and unconventional song structures, creates an atmospheric and contemplative tone in “New Hampshire.” The absence of lyrics allows listeners to interpret and connect with the music in their own way, as the song’s title and the instrumental nature provide room for personal reflection.
The title “New Hampshire” may be symbolic or evoke a sense of place and atmosphere, although it doesn’t delve into specific cultural or historical aspects of the state. Sonic Youth is known for their avant-garde approach to music, and “New Hampshire” is an example of how instrumental music can evoke emotions, imagery, and moods without relying on lyrics.
“New Hampshire” serves as an evocative and contemplative piece of music, allowing listeners to explore their own thoughts and emotions as they connect with the band’s distinctive sound and the song’s title.
4. “Okay Alright” By Moe
“Okay Alright” is a song by the American jam band Moe. The song is not exclusively about New Hampshire, but the state is referenced in the lyrics, contributing to the song’s narrative.
The lyrics of “Okay Alright” depict a scene where the narrator is driving through the night, with references to New Hampshire as a location. The state’s name is used in the song to create a sense of place and atmosphere, as the narrator travels through the night.
Moe’s jam band style, characterized by extended instrumental improvisation and a blend of rock and other genres, creates an energetic and groovy atmosphere. “Okay Alright” is known for its musical improvisation and the band’s ability to create a lively and dynamic performance.
While the song doesn’t delve into New Hampshire’s cultural or historical aspects, it uses the state’s name as part of a broader narrative about travel and adventure. “Okay Alright” is an example of how music can incorporate place names into a larger story, in this case, the experiences of a traveler on a nighttime journey.
5. “Leaving New Hampshire” By Andy Leftwich
“Leaving New Hampshire” is a song by the American musician Andy Leftwich. While the song’s title references New Hampshire, it doesn’t focus on the state itself but instead conveys a sense of departure and leaving behind a place or a chapter in one’s life.
The lyrics of “Leaving New Hampshire” evoke a theme of farewell and moving on, using the state’s name as part of the narrative to create a sense of place. The song conveys a sense of nostalgia and transition, reflecting the idea of departing from a familiar location or period in one’s life.
Andy Leftwich’s musical style, characterized by his instrumental prowess and melodic composition, creates a reflective and emotive atmosphere. “Leaving New Hampshire” is known for its themes of saying goodbye and the emotions that come with leaving behind a part of one’s life.
While the song doesn’t delve into New Hampshire’s cultural or historical aspects, it uses the state’s name metaphorically to convey a broader message of transition and moving forward. “Leaving New Hampshire” is an example of how music can use place names within a narrative to explore themes of change, nostalgia, and personal growth, making it a heartfelt and contemplative song for those experiencing a period of transition in their lives.
6. “New Hampshire’s Coast” By Below The Sea
“New Hampshire’s Coast” is a song by the band Below the Sea. While the song’s title references New Hampshire, it doesn’t exclusively focus on the state but instead creates an atmospheric and contemplative mood that evokes a sense of place and space.
The song’s instrumental style, characterized by its ambient and post-rock influences, allows listeners to immerse themselves in an emotional and introspective atmosphere. “New Hampshire’s Coast” doesn’t have lyrics but relies on musical elements to convey its message, letting the listener’s imagination roam.
The title “New Hampshire’s Coast” may serve as a symbol of a tranquil and contemplative environment. It invites listeners to connect with the music and interpret its meaning based on their own experiences and emotions, as instrumental music often allows for a more personal and introspective connection.
While the song may not provide a detailed exploration of New Hampshire’s cultural or historical aspects, it uses the state’s name to create a sense of place and atmosphere. “New Hampshire’s Coast” is an example of how instrumental music can evoke emotions, imagery, and moods without relying on lyrics, offering an open and contemplative musical experience for the listener.
7. “New Hampshire You’re My Home” By Beverly Rush
“New Hampshire You’re My Home” is a song by Beverly Rush that pays homage to the state of New Hampshire. This song is a heartfelt tribute to the state, expressing a deep sense of belonging and affection for New Hampshire.
The lyrics of “New Hampshire You’re My Home” convey a strong emotional connection to the state, celebrating its natural beauty, serene landscapes, and the sense of home that it provides. The song paints a vivid picture of New Hampshire’s lakes, mountains, and rural charm, reflecting the sentiments of those who consider the state their beloved home.
Beverly Rush’s musical style, characterized by melodic vocals and folk-inspired instrumentation, creates a warm and nostalgic atmosphere. The song is known for its themes of love for New Hampshire and the sense of community that the state represents.
“New Hampshire You’re My Home” serves as a heartfelt and touching tribute to the state of New Hampshire and the sense of belonging that it instills in those who call it home. It captures the essence of what makes New Hampshire a special place and the deep emotional ties that its residents have to their state.
8. “Granite State Of Mind” By The Super Secret Project
“Granite State of Mind” is a song by The Super Secret Project, a comedy and music group based in New Hampshire. The song is a parody of Jay-Z’s “Empire State of Mind” and serves as an affectionate and humorous tribute to the state of New Hampshire.
The lyrics of “Granite State of Mind” humorously reference various aspects of New Hampshire, from its license plates and famous attractions to its unique culture and characteristics. The song playfully celebrates the state’s quirks and charms, poking fun at both the state’s residents and stereotypes while expressing genuine affection for New Hampshire.
The Super Secret Project’s musical style is characterized by their comedic lyrics and catchy melodies. “Granite State of Mind” is known for its humor and its ability to make listeners laugh while also expressing a sense of state pride.
While the song is more about humor and parody than a serious exploration of New Hampshire’s culture and history, it offers a lighthearted and entertaining perspective on the state. “Granite State of Mind” has become a beloved and humorous anthem for many New Hampshire residents, celebrating the state’s unique character in a fun and playful way.
9. “New Hampshire” By John Linnell
“New Hampshire” is a song by John Linnell, one half of the alternative rock duo They Might Be Giants. The song is a quirky and somewhat surreal tribute to the state of New Hampshire.
The lyrics of “New Hampshire” feature playful and whimsical references to various aspects of the state, both real and imagined. The song’s lyrics combine elements of humor, surrealism, and wordplay to create a unique and idiosyncratic portrait of New Hampshire.
John Linnell’s musical style, characterized by his distinctive vocals and eclectic instrumentation, creates an offbeat and whimsical atmosphere in “New Hampshire.” The song is known for its unconventional and playful approach to songwriting.
While “New Hampshire” doesn’t provide a straightforward exploration of New Hampshire’s cultural or historical aspects, it does offer a creative and imaginative perspective on the state. The song captures the essence of New Hampshire in a whimsical and entertaining way, making it a distinctive addition to John Linnell’s body of work and an enjoyable musical exploration of the state for those who appreciate a touch of eccentricity in their music.
10. “Escape From New Hampshire” By Boscoden
“Escape From New Hampshire” is a song by Boscoden, a New England-based artist. This song appears to be a creative and imaginative piece of music that plays with the idea of escaping from New Hampshire. However, it doesn’t necessarily focus on the state’s specific culture or history.
The song might use the concept of escaping from New Hampshire as a metaphor for leaving behind a certain situation or seeking a new beginning. It could represent the idea of pursuing adventure or change, which is a common theme in music.
Boscoden’s musical style and the atmosphere created by the song are not widely known, as the artist may not have reached widespread recognition. However, the title “Escape From New Hampshire” suggests a sense of adventure, and the song likely reflects the artist’s personal experiences and creative expression.
While the song may not provide an in-depth exploration of New Hampshire’s cultural or historical aspects, it offers an imaginative perspective on the concept of escape and new beginnings. “Escape From New Hampshire” can be seen as a creative and open-ended musical expression, allowing listeners to interpret its meaning in their own way.