Rocky Top

Rocky Top is a popular bluegrass and country song written by Felice and Boudleaux Bryant in 1967. While the lyrics describe a fictional place called Rocky Top, it has become closely associated with the University of Tennessee Volunteers, serving as one of their official fight songs.

The song was originally recorded by The Osborne Brothers and released in 1967, reaching the country charts. However, it was Lynn Anderson's version in 1970 that propelled the song to wider popularity. Over the years, "Rocky Top" has been recorded by numerous other artists and has become a staple of bluegrass and country music.

The lyrics tell the story of someone who leaves the city for a simpler life in the mountains of Rocky Top. While the exact location of Rocky Top is never specified, the song evokes a sense of rural beauty and escape from the complexities of modern life.

The University of Tennessee adopted "Rocky Top" as an unofficial fight song in the late 1960s, and it quickly gained popularity among students and fans. It is now played at athletic events and other university functions, and is deeply ingrained in the school's culture and traditions. In 1982, it was officially designated as one of the state songs of Tennessee.

The song's enduring appeal lies in its catchy melody, relatable lyrics, and its association with a beloved university and state. "Rocky Top" continues to be a popular and recognizable song, representing the spirit of Tennessee and the passion of its fans.