Who's behind the notes? Discover John Denver: The Voice of Folk and Country Music
"Take Me Home, Country Roads" is one of John Denver's most iconic songs, and there are several interesting facts associated with it:
Co-Written by Bill Danoff and Taffy Nivert: While John Denver is often associated with the song, it was actually co-written by Bill Danoff and Taffy Nivert. They wrote it in a cabin in Maryland, and the inspiration for the song came from their desire to capture the feeling of the West Virginia countryside, even though they had never been there before.
Originally about Massachusetts: When Danoff and Nivert first wrote the song, it was initially intended to be about Massachusetts. However, they changed the location to West Virginia after realizing that "West Virginia" fit the song's melody better.
West Virginia's Official State Song: "Take Me Home, Country Roads" was adopted as one of West Virginia's official state songs on March 7, 2014. It has become an anthem for the state and is often performed at various events and gatherings in West Virginia.
Popular in Pop Culture: The song has been featured in numerous movies, TV shows, and commercials. It has a timeless quality that continues to resonate with audiences of all ages.
Chart Success: Released in 1971 as a single, the song reached No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, becoming one of John Denver's biggest hits.
Cover Versions: Many artists have covered "Take Me Home, Country Roads" over the years, contributing to its enduring popularity. Notably, the song has been covered by artists like Olivia Newton-John, Toots and the Maytals, and Israel Kamakawiwo'ole.
Impact on West Virginia Tourism: The song has had a significant impact on West Virginia's tourism industry. It has attracted visitors to the state, drawn by the romanticized image of the West Virginia countryside depicted in the song.
Legacy: John Denver's rendition of "Take Me Home, Country Roads" remains one of his most beloved songs. It's considered a classic of the folk and country genres and has been included in numerous compilations of his music.
"Take Me Home, Country Roads" has left a lasting legacy as a song that captures the essence of rural America and has a special place in the hearts of many music lovers, especially those with an affinity for West Virginia.