About the song
“If You’re Gonna Play in Texas (You Gotta Have a Fiddle in the Band)” is a vibrant song by the American country music band Alabama, penned by Murry Kellum and Dan Mitchell. Released in July 1984, this song was initially the B-side of the single “I’m Not That Way Anymore” from their album *Roll On*. However, radio listeners and programmers quickly gravitated toward the B-side, leading it to become Alabama’s 14th consecutive number-one hit on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart.
The song is celebrated for its lively and engaging sound, reflecting the energetic spirit of country music. It emphasizes the importance of incorporating a fiddle into country performances, particularly in Texas, where the fiddle is a staple of the musical tradition. The chorus of the song pays homage to classic country tunes, specifically referencing “Faded Love” by Bob Wills and “Louisiana Man” by Doug Kershaw, highlighting the song’s deep roots in traditional country music.
Critical reception of “If You’re Gonna Play in Texas (You Gotta Have a Fiddle in the Band)” was positive. Kip Kirby from Billboard magazine praised the song, noting that Alabama “obviously enjoys this high-energy instrumental romp through roots.” The song’s infectious rhythm and celebratory tone contributed to its popularity, reinforcing Alabama’s reputation as a leading band in the country music scene.
The music video for the song, filmed at Fort Payne High School, complements the song’s lively spirit and showcases the band’s performance. The video highlights the song’s dynamic energy and the importance of the fiddle in creating an authentic country sound.
Interestingly, the single version of the song differs from the album version. The single edit is over a minute shorter, omitting the opening fanfare and a second repeat of the refrain that features only drums before the fiddle-led bridge. The Greatest Hits Vol. III album version maintains the extra refrain while excluding the intro.
The song’s influence extended beyond music into political campaigns, as it was used in a radio advertisement for U.S. Senator Ted Cruz’s 2018 reelection campaign. This use further underscores the song’s cultural impact and enduring appeal.
In summary, “If You’re Gonna Play in Texas (You Gotta Have a Fiddle in the Band)” stands out as a quintessential Alabama hit, celebrated for its catchy melody, vibrant instrumentation, and homage to traditional country music.
Video
Lyrics
If you’re gonna play in Texas
You gotta have a fiddle in the band
That lead guitar is hot
But not for “Louisiana man”
So rosin up that bow for “faded love”
And let’s all dance
If you’re gonna play in Texas
You gotta have a fiddle in the band
I remember down in Houston
We were puttin’ on a show
When a cowboy in the back stood up and yelled
“Cotton-Eyed Joe”
He said, “We love what you’re doin’
Boys don’t get us wrong
There’s just somethin’ missin’ in your song”
If you’re gonna play in Texas
You gotta have a fiddle in the band
That lead guitar is hot
But not for “Louisiana man”
So rosin up that bow for “faded love”
And let’s all dance
If you’re gonna play in Texas
You gotta have a fiddle in the band
So we dusted off our boots and put our cowboy hats on straight
Them Texans raised the roof when Jeff opened up his case
You say y’all all want to two-step, you say ya want to doe-si-doe
Well, here’s a fiddlin’ song before we go
If you’re gonna play in Texas
You gotta have a fiddle in the band
That lead guitar is hot
But not for “Louisiana man”
So rosin up that bow for “faded love”
And let’s all dance
If you’re gonna play in Texas,
You gotta have a fiddle in the band
If you’re gonna play in Texas
You gotta have a fiddle in the band
That lead guitar is hot
But not for “Louisiana man”
So rosin up that bow for “faded love”
And let’s all dance
If you’re gonna play in Texas
You gotta have a fiddle in the band