About the song
“Mountain Music” is a cherished song recorded by the American country music band Alabama. Written by Randy Owen, the band’s lead singer, it was released in January 1982 as the lead single and title track from their album *Mountain Music*. This song blends Southern rock and bluegrass, creating a unique sound that has resonated deeply with fans and critics alike.
The creation of “Mountain Music” was a labor of love for Randy Owen. According to his book *Born Country*, the song took him three years to write, as he aimed to capture and reflect his childhood experiences. The lyrics of “Mountain Music” celebrate rural life and the simple joys of living close to nature, and it has been praised as a “modern country classic.” It represents a significant moment in country music, embodying the essence of what many country groups aspire to achieve.
A notable feature of the song is its incorporation of various musical elements, including chert rocks, a detail that is sometimes misheard by listeners. In addition to the lead vocals by Owen, the song prominently features solo vocals from band members Teddy Gentry and Jeff Cook, particularly in the third verse, where they trade off lead vocals with Owen.
The single and album versions of “Mountain Music” differ slightly. The single edit omits an introduction where an old mountain philosopher, portrayed by Bob Martin, speaks of climbing a mountain—a nod to a song recorded by Walter Brennan called “Old Rivers.” It also removes a harmonica solo and a series of guitar riffs that build in tempo from slow to fast, which are present in the album version.
The impact of “Mountain Music” extends beyond its initial release. For instance, Brad Paisley’s 2011 single “Old Alabama” includes a bridge from “Mountain Music,” showcasing the song’s lasting influence. Overall, “Mountain Music” remains a beloved staple in country music, reflecting the heartfelt connection between music and personal history.
Video
Lyrics
“You see that mountain over there? Yeah?
Well, one of these days I’m gonna climb that mountain”.[Chorus:]
Oh, play me some mountain music,
Like grandma and grandpa used to play.
Then I’ll float on down the river
To a Cajun hideaway.Drift away like Tom Sawyer, ride a raft with ol’ Huck Finn.
Take a nap like Rip Van Winkle, daze dreamin’ again.Oh, play me some mountain music,
Like grandma and grandpa used to play.
Then I’ll float on down the river
To a Cajun hideaway.Swim across the river, just to prove that I’m a man.
Spend the day bein’ lazy, just bein’ nature’s friend.
Climb a long tall hick’ry. Bend it over, skinnin’ cats.
Playin’ baseball with chert rocks, usin’ sawmill slabs for bats.Play some back-home, come-on music
That comes from the heart.
Play something with lots of feelin’,
‘Cause that’s where music has to start.Oh, play me some mountain music,
Like grandma and grandpa used to play.
Then I’ll float on down the river
To a Cajun hideaway, hey hey.Oh play me mountain music.
Oh play me mountain music.
Oh play me mountain music.
Oh play me mountain music.