I usually play the piece from a lead sheet to allow freedom for improvisation, but I felt a published ‘concert’ version may be useful for other players. It is for this reason that I love to play this version for audiences. I remember it having a profound impact on me as a child.
I was introduced to Georgia by a primary school music teacher in the 1970’s. It is perhaps this ambiguity and possible double-meaning of the lyric which make it so alluring. In 1979 the song was officially designated as the State Song of Georgia.
Writers have speculated that the song was written about Carmichael’s sister, named Georgia, but the writer himself state it was inspired by the US state. Both versions also have chord symbols in case players wish to improvise around the sequence. This download gives you a version with just notes and a second with notes and TAB. My solo arrangement is designed for more experienced players. Ray Charles’ version reached number 1 in the Billboard chart that same year. This classic song was composed in 1930 and has become best associated with the single by Ray Charles, recorded in 1960. Published by DanJonesGuitarist (A0.1048353).
