About the song
James Taylor is an American singer-songwriter who has been a major figure in popular music since the late 1960s. His music is known for its introspective lyrics, warm melodies, and his distinctive acoustic guitar playing. Taylor has won numerous awards, including five Grammy Awards, and he has been inducted into both the Songwriters Hall of Fame and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
“Carolina in My Mind” is one of Taylor’s most popular songs. It was released in 1968 on his self-titled debut album. The song is a beautiful and evocative ode to the state of North Carolina, where Taylor spent his childhood summers. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the state’s natural beauty, from its rolling hills and lush forests to its warm sunshine and gentle breezes.
The song is also a personal reflection on Taylor’s own memories of North Carolina. He sings about the friends he made there, the games he played, and the sense of freedom he felt. The song is a powerful reminder of the importance of home and the cherished memories we make there.
“Carolina in My Mind” has been covered by many artists, including Elton John, Dolly Parton, and Ryan Adams. It has also been featured in several films and television shows. The song is a classic of American popular music, and it continues to be enjoyed by listeners of all ages.
Here are some additional details about the song:
- The song was written in England while Taylor was homesick for North Carolina.
- The song’s opening line, “In my mind I’m gone to Carolina,” is one of the most famous in American song.
- The song has been used in several films and television shows, including “The Big Chill,” “Forrest Gump,” and “The Sopranos.”
- The song was covered by Elton John on his 1971 album “Madman Across the Water.”
- The song was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2004.
“Carolina in My Mind” is a beautiful and timeless song that captures the essence of North Carolina and the power of home. It is a song that will continue to be enjoyed by listeners for generations to come.
Video
Lyrics
“Carolina In My Mind”
In my mind I’m going to Carolina. Can’t you see the sunshine, can’t you just feel the moonshine?
Ain’t it just like a friend of mine to hit me from behind? Yes, I’m going to Carolina in my mind.Karen she’s the silver sun, you best walk her way and watch it shine,
watch her watch the morning come.
A silver tear appearing now I’m crying, ain’t I? I’m going to Carolina in my mind.There ain’t no doubt in no ones mind that loves the finest thing around,
whisper something soft and kind.
And hey, babe, the sky’s on fire, I’m dying, ain’t I? I’m going to Carolina in my mind.In my mind I’m going to Carolina. Can’t you see the sunshine, can’t you just feel the moonshine?
Ain’t it just like a friend of mine to hit me from behind? Yes, I’m going to Carolina in my mind.Dark and silent late last night, I think I might have heard the highway calling.
Geese in flight and dogs that bite.
And signs that might be omens say I’m going, going I’m gone to Carolina in my mind.Now with a holy host of others standing round me, still I’m on the dark side of the moon.
And it seems like it goes on like this forever, you must forgive me
if I’m up and gone to Carolina in my mind.In my mind I’m going to Carolina. Can’t you see the sunshine, can’t you just feel the moonshine?
Ain’t it just like a friend of mine to hit me from behind? Yes, I’m gone to Carolina in my mind.
Gotta make it back home again soon, gotta make it back on home again soon,
gotta make it back to Carolina soon, can’t hang around, no babe, gotta make it back home again,
gotta make it back to Carolina soon…