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Hoagy Carmichael, born Howard Hoagland Carmichael on November 22, 1899, was an American composer, pianist, singer, and actor. He is best known for composing the timeless classic "Georgia on My Mind." Here are some interesting facts about Hoagy Carmichael and the song:

1. "Georgia on My Mind": Hoagy Carmichael wrote "Georgia on My Mind" in 1930, with lyrics by Stuart Gorrell. The song became widely popular and has been covered by numerous artists over the years. One of the most famous renditions is by Ray Charles, whose version released in 1960 became a massive hit and the official state song of Georgia in 1979.

2. Versatility: Carmichael was a versatile musician and contributed to various music genres, including jazz, pop, and country. His compositions have been recorded by artists spanning different musical styles.

3. Career as a Performer: In addition to being a prolific songwriter, Carmichael was a skilled pianist and vocalist. He gained recognition for his laid-back, southern style of singing and his distinctive piano playing.

4. Other Notable Compositions: Besides "Georgia on My Mind," Carmichael composed several other well-known songs, including "Stardust," "Up a Lazy River," "Rockin' Chair," and "Heart and Soul," among others.

5. Film and Television Career: Hoagy Carmichael also had a successful career in film and television. He appeared in over a dozen movies, often playing a pianist or band leader. One of his notable film appearances was in "To Have and Have Not" (1944), in which he performed "Hong Kong Blues."

6. Recognition and Awards: Carmichael's contributions to music earned him recognition, and he received the Songwriters Hall of Fame's Johnny Mercer Award in 1971. He was also inducted into the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music Hall of Fame.

Hoagy Carmichael's legacy lives on through his timeless compositions, and "Georgia on My Mind" remains one of the most cherished and iconic songs in American music history.