Southern Voice (song)

"Southern Voice" is a song written and performed by American country music artist Tim McGraw. It was released in August 2009 as the lead-off single from his compilation album of the same name, Southern Voice. The song reached number one on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart in November 2009.

The song celebrates and romanticizes aspects of Southern American culture, referencing various historical figures, musicians, writers, and cultural icons associated with the Southern United States. It name-drops figures like William Faulkner, Hank Williams, Elvis Presley, Jimmy Buffett, and Martin Luther King Jr., highlighting their significance to the Southern identity.

Lyrically, "Southern Voice" attempts to capture a sense of pride and resilience associated with the South, acknowledging both its historical complexities and its enduring cultural contributions. It portrays the South as a region with a rich and complex heritage, shaped by its history, music, literature, and values. The song's instrumentation incorporates traditional country elements, contributing to its overall Southern sound and feel.

Reception to "Southern Voice" was mixed. Some critics praised its catchy melody and patriotic sentiment, while others criticized its perceived reliance on Southern stereotypes and its seemingly simplistic portrayal of a complex region. Despite the mixed critical reception, the song was a commercial success, solidifying its place as one of Tim McGraw's signature hits.