Tim is from Texas, Austin is from Georgia, Chance is from Alabama ( born in Florida) and Rob and Adam are from Minnesota. This is an absolutely beautiful song. I enjoyed watching your reactions to this song.
I wasn't quite sure what Jeremy's heritage was. I thought he might be biracial, but I suspect a lot of folks would have missed that. This song arose out of a conversation Tim, Austin, and Adam Wakefield of Texas Hill had about the conflicted emotions of being from the South, and all the love of home you have contrasted with the negative feelings for some of the historic and current regressive attitudes, culture, and even laws. They took a lot of flack for this song for being "woke" and blah blah blah. But I think a lot of folks from the South and South-adjacent areas also really resonated with it. Tim did a lecture called Vocal Harmony for Social Harmony a few months ago where he talked about this song and then performed it with Chris Chatham, Grant Hendrickson of the Alley Cats, and Adam Bastien. This song means *a lot* to him.
Dixie is The South!! The story I heard was Tim and Austin Chris and Chance were talking about how there was lots of negativity in regards to the south. They were changing names of groups and towns. This was the response.
This song is so beautiful and has so many potential meanings. From the aspect of Tim, Austin and Chance being from the south, they are proud of their upbringing yet there are negative aspects. For myself, it speaks to moving on from where you grew up and while there are things that you remember fondly, going back is not an option. It was especially poignant for me in accepting that the home I grew up in is no longer a part of my life. While the building is still there, it is no longer MY home. Where I live now is my HOME and where I take some of what I learned from my parents and use it to build my life now. Home Free did get some push back on this song, with people thinking they were turning their back on the south. Some people even took it to mean they were turning their back on country music. I see the song a song of love, pride, longing, sadness and hope in moving forward which everyone experiences in their own unique way.
My fav original. Tim’s been open about saying this was about the South. I think as a southern “white” “man”, his values have changed from his upbringing. He’s been vocal about women’s rights and minority suppression. 💜💜💜
(Thanks to being a Patron, I got to watch the album discussion and have heard Tim and Austin talk about it in various bashes, too). Jeremy has it right. This was written in response to Adam Wakefield saying that he had always wanted to write a song called "So Long Dixie", but no one would write it with him. Tim and Austin took on the challenge, and Chatham formed the fantastic guitar track. It is about having to leave home to follow your dreams - all three 'southern' guys had to do that. And also about how not everything in the past is worth keeping - both personally and with the community. You try to be "better" than your parents, learning from their mistakes. It is both a love song to the Dixie that fostered them in their youth and a sad realization that Dixie could not and cannot fulfill everything for everyone. Tim and Austin are at least closer to home than they were for a while - MN, MA, OK, CA ... all places they had to live/work before HF. I hear the slide all the time, but I just expect it to be there. Maybe because I have heard Chatham and Jefferey so much in more informal settings where it is always present.
The first time I heard this song I immediately thought of my Mom and her story as she left her home in Arkansas just after her high school graduation to go in the Army. Leaving the South and her family was hard, but it was what she needed to find who she was. She has always kept connected to her family & Southern roots, but she does not regret leaving. It was what she needed for her future.
@@teckiemom This song really resonated with me. When we got married, we moved halfway across the country to have a job that, at the time, was not a possibility where I grew up in ND. I loved growing up on a farm, but . . .
Tim, Austin, Chris Chatham & Adam Wakefield (of Texas Hill) co-wrote this. The singing, harmonies, Adam's percussion & Chris's guitar playing are incomparable. The message of the song - to my mind - is about leaving behind the "Dixie" of Confederate flags and all that denotes. With Tim being from southeast Texas, Austin from south Georgia & Chance from Alabama - the song is deep.
Another great original song! This is such a beautiful heartfelt melancholy song. Tim's lead was awesome along with all the guy's harmonies & Adam's harmonica sounds were great as usual. I don't mind having an instrument played once in awhile in a song. It was tastefully done in the background without taking over. It added a nice element. Also like the scenery in Colorado. I can't understand why some commenters have been really negative about the lyrics. They are truthful in saying that some of the south's past may not be pleasant but not all of it is. Our background & upbringing still makes us the person we are.
I love hearing the guitar slide and the breathing. Makes it more real. When they did the album introduction, Tim and Austin talked about how this was a song about having to leave home - not matter where home is - to make your way in the world. You never forget where you grew up and what you learned there, but you can't stay back there in the past forever.
In a stage show, Tim introduced this (I think it was this one) by saying, yes, there's guitar, so a cappella purists just (rude phrase here). He stands up for himself and others. You'll see it that in "Everybody Walkin' This Land", and a few other songs that set off "anti-woke" types. Home Free has sided with country artists like The Chicks (used to be The Dixie Chicks), and Maren Morris, who suffered nasty backlash for left-wing tendencies. "So Long Dixie" is about turning their backs on the negative side of Southern and country music culture.
Tim and Chance did a beautiful job on this song. The harmonies are beautiful and Adam did beautiful job on the harmonica sounds. Chris did a great job on the guitar.
Love this song. I heard it live in concert and Chris was there playing guitar, Austin had a “shaker” and also Adam’s wonderful soulful harmonica. It was so beautiful and the boys sat for this. Tim is from Texas, Chance from Alabama and Austin from Georgia. I think they meant they were sad they had to leave their homes to go up “north” to make music. I don’t think it’s deeper than that but it could be. It’s got a little double entendre.
The behind the scenes is hilarious they were all freezing to death! Especially Tim, they shot it in Denver Colorado. There was still snow on the ground in places outside of camera view. Tim states he co wrote this with Austin and Chris did the guitar parts and it was so nice they decided to leave it in.
Ok, just watched the new video release. Don't wait on it, you will be pleasantly surprised. Perfect song to showcase the new Home Free. Love this song too. One of my favorites to sing along too. Much Love xoxoxoxxox
This song when originally released was criticized strongly by several reactors, one was really angry that the south was being depicted this way. He of course totally missed the point. We should all learn from history whether good or bad. Southeastern history is certainly checkered but the same can be said for virtually any area of the country. Sometimes pride can be misplaced.
Y'all are ADORABLE together! Yes, I believe that the original intent was about the South, but it can be easily interpreted to be applicable to anyone and anywhere about growing up and leaving home. (BTW Tim grew up in SE TX, Chance in S AL, & Austin in GA) IMO, something that is on the wrong end of a one-way road is something that's in the past and can never be revisited (time is a one-way road). Again, IMO, the song acknowledges the good of the past and the need to learn from the past mistakes. Being on the edge of The South (Oklahoma), this song resonates with me in both the Southern culture and life in general. And the little breathes and guitar squeaks? To me, it makes the music and the musicians more real. So much music sounds non-human because over-production makes it sound sterile.
For me, the most important part of a song IS the lyrics; and there is no instrument more beautiful than the human voice (these human voices anyway). Tim and co-writers show amazing talent as lyricists here. They have what I call "souls of poets speaking their truths." I do, of course, love the music too, since that is what turns poetry into song. Chris' guitar was the perfect instrument to enhance these lyrics without overpowering them. I believe Jeremy did an excellent job interpreting the meaning, as did many of the comments from viewers here. The song is about loving home and all the good aspects of growing up in the South, while acknowledging that some things need/needed to change. Some people were offended by that idea, but strong positive or negative emotional reactions show how powerful this beautiful song really is. Gail L
They performed this song last year at our state fair because Chris was there to play guitar. One of my favorites!! Ninja, that comment about having a breath in the right place in a song can really add something, I immediately thought of Adam Lambert singing his version of Cher's Believe at the Kennedy Center Honors. If you haven't watched that video, do check it out. Love watching you on Home Fryday! ❤
I love how they kept this so clean, but true to the music as it is. The way Chance shines as the bass in the chorus is incredible. "dixie" upbringing was a "southern way of thinking" and social etiquette. It's there way of saying that they were raised well but they have also grown well to become the people they have become...so beautiful. At least that is how it hits me. We all take how we are raised and add to it our experiences in life to create the people we are. I think this was their way of saying "thank you" for raising them well ... a good start in life. They are admitting they had a good childhood, but to have more, they had to leave.
This is so very awesome. Tim has so much talent as both a singer and song writer. Austin will be so very missed. They will never be the same without him. I understand why he left, and I am very happy for him and Amberly. I will keep listening to Austin. I am a true Austinite for life! Love your reactions!
Thank you for your wonderful reaction. Filmed in Colorado. Rupp nomonica always makes me 😊. Don’t wait: Bastien slayed his video debut with Home Free something to talk about fabulous! I want them to do more Motown and rock. 🥰
It's unfair to judge by one song. It's going to be different. Change is not necessarily negative. It's a great new video. This song is a great original.
Remember when Chance took over from Chris? A lot of people, including reactors, took a long time to warm to his very distinctive vocals. I love his voice. He's kind of introverted with a very dry sense of humour and it took folks a while to get used to his type of energy. Now, people actively look forward to hearing him take a lead in a song. I don't believe Bastien will be any different.
@@pennymaple1817 I loved Chance instantly. No offence to Chris, but Chance is an upgrade from Cris. And I just don't really like Bastiens voice, it's just a matter of taste. I'm not saying he's not a good singer because he is. I just need more songs to get used to him I guess. But knowing our guys, that won't be a problem😉
@@HannahSBax I did, too. Chance filled in their sound. I think we're likely to see more songs like Mayday where they mix things up. I can see it now. Everybody switch parts. They have the flexibility to do it.
This song has always made me cry. I never had the choice of where to live next, but it was hard to move further and further away. Our last move was my choice, but I’m the least happy except at church. I live in the South and can understand why so many have left. So I think I understand the song better than I thought. Thank you for delving deeper with the lyrics. Makes me wish it had come out earlier. I love the guitar too. Tomorrow! 🎶 Cyd
I tend to watch a new video at least half a dozen times before I catch all the different bits. Once through for song, once for video, then more so I can watch each guy individually too. For the video they premiered today I watched more like a dozen, just excited for Bastien.
When this came out, listened to it on repeat. It was a verbal expression of a feeling that I had. I’m in the south and wouldn’t change it, but it’s been a struggle sometimes to redefine how the south would shape me.
They filmed this in the Denver, CO area when they were here for their Christmas tour a couple years ago. We had the pleasure of Chris joining them on stage for a few songs.
Back in the sixtys and seventies with the live variety shows we heard the finger slides and breaths a lot more that now. The finger slides were more prominent with casuistic guitars. Not so mush with electric using flat strings.
Yeah, back then it just would have been way more tedious to take those things out. Technology has made that so easy...which is why its nice to hear now, becuase you forget that it should be there. Also, flat strings? I'm not sure what youre referring to there. There are "Flatwound" strings...but I've never been around anyone who actually uses those. All my strings are roundwound...and you definitely can hear the string slides depending on your settings.
Such a beautiful song with rich, powerful lyrics! #HomeFree never disappoints and I like to think of this original about appreciating where you're from and growing and building upon it in the best way. (I don't consider it disrespectful but about maturing and taking the best of your upbringing and building upon it.)
I love this song a lot, one of my favorites. Jeremy, I get the fondness of hearing the guitar strings being played. We know that in a studio, usually baby powder is used to dampen that sound, but I love when it’s left in. For a great example of string squeak check out “I’m Carryin’” by Paul McCartney on the Londontown album. It’s a beautiful song and you can actually hear the instrument being played.
Oh wow. Jeremy, that’s my favorite thing with the strings, that real "noise." I’m always so happy listening to Chris playing. He is a wonderful musician. By the by, I want to hear about the microphones and sound stuff. It is never too late to learn new things musically, so I appreciate your take on this stuff. Somebody told me I was too old once to do anything in music. But maybe I’m not. Just maybe not. We will see. I love your take on this song. I think this is coming from Tim’s heart. He wrote it and, in my mind, it seems like he really wanted it to sound a certain way and reflect his feelings about leaving the "South" mentality behind. Maybe not, but that's what I get from it. It’s Colorado btw (I think anyway).
DANI!!!! It's never too late my friend. I didnt even START engineering until I was 30. It's not about age...it's more about who you know and the opportunities around you. You can learn anything you need to. And to be honest, a lot of what I do, I learned ON the gigs. I had to learn broadcast terminology, and gear that isn't typically used in studios. So it's never too late my friend. You just gotta find the right person to give you a chance, and then you're in.
Thanks for saying all that. It really means probably more than you think. I have another friend that didn't really start until his 30s, and he has a great full-time career gigging in Annapolis and on the Eastern Shore of MD. I started having kids in my 30s, so that kind of took precedence. Now that I'm older, I'm ready to follow a dream, but I'm also tired lol. I still think there might be a place for me and perhaps somewhere for me to offer some of my talents. Anyway, love you guys and your positive energy. It makes my day better when I watch your stuff and gives me hope in the end. And, well, that's just everything, isn't it? Can't wait for your HF reaction Friday on the Bonnie Raitt song, who is another artist who "made it" later in life. I just love her, and HF's version is amazing because the arrangement is just kind of hard to put into words because it's that good, in my opinion. Whew, I'm wordy today! Go figure ;)
I do appreciate when you do the lyric analysis, but also appreciate when you point out things instrumentally/vocally/engineering wise that I may have missed. Sometimes I've listened to songs countless times and missed something you point out. We all have our way of listening and it's nice when things get pointed out that you missed because then you can appreciate that. I like listening to different reactors to catch things I missed. I think as Ninja alluded to lyrics can be a bit subjective. Obviously they have their own meaning to the artist, but, a lot of songs and a lot of lyrics can be sort of adapted from person to person to mean something specific to them. I think that's part of the power of music. Some of my takeaways from the lyrics were acknowledging how he was raised and how it made him who he is, the past is the past and it's made you who you are, but concentrate on the present. For me personally it resonates in leaving the town I grew up in, experiencing other people and other places. But, I think that even if you stay in your hometown, the lyrics can kind of represent growing into your own person. Some people do that more than others. Another thought I had, the small town type of thing that you guys are from (and me) and left, somebody else might love to move there from the hustle and bustle of a big city, so there could be kind of an opposite path for some people. But ultimately, it's about growing, becoming your own person, not getting hung up on the past, but appreciating what it made you. It's very interesting to me because there are a lot of articles about how certain people primarily listen to music and certain people primarily notice lyrics, and some people kind of have a balance. So it's been interesting seeing Ninja pointing out the lyrics and see Jeremy thinking about them. Songs can even change meaning to people based on their current circumstances. For me, one of the really powerful things is feeling the meaning of a song with no lyrics.
Chance is from the middle of nowhere Alabama, Tim is from a tiny place in Texas. It's a good bye from home and addressing that there are issues and history that isn't good. Yes, it is the about being from the south. Tim was very clear about this, he used the song as an example in a university lecture
Watching him be tearful when spaking on it was inpactful. How much hes changed personally from what was socially execeptable back then (gay jokes ect.) To working on bettering himself and being a part of that change now. Hes an outspoken guy, but when you see how he is away from being a performer, hes a deeply caring and thoughtful man. Never be fooled by the off color humor haha.
@@princessButtercupp I wish I could have been there to listen to his lecture. The more I learn about Tim, the more impressed I am with him. As a singer, songwriter, arranger, public speaker, humorist, and just a wonderful, caring human being.
Hello J & J! This is a wonderful original song. I think it hits differently if you're from the South, like I am. The guys did a great job as they usually do & I love the guitar here from Chris. Great reaction! ❤
Probably one of my top top #1s : ) By these guys! It's so so damn good. I want to type-out a whole thought/take on it ... but, sadly - I'm limited (hmmm). Another one by these guys that would be top of the charts on radio -- (so) if the masses were to get it. Chatham is nearly a soloist here -- stand-a-lone ... intentional in blending right in and adds to; another very rare occurrence (not just HF with this configuration). EPIC really. So many things can be taken from the song (words) and they deliver 'em in such an understanding way --- gives it feel, gives it life. Phenomenal !!!! Be Safe
LOL, best laugh of the day! Regarding the lyrics...Tim, Austin and Chance grew up in the deep south. Dixie refers more to the bad things that went on in the South. I think the song acknowledges that, but says it's in the past. We're not like that. (The Dixie Chicks dropped "Dixie" from their name for a reason.)
Lots of backlash, when this came out, from diehard acapella fans who didn't like the use of the guitar. It does lend a more melancholy feel. Adam's nomomica isn't as prominent as some of us would like. But, very enjoyable song, nonetheless, as it shows their versatility. Quickly becomes an ear worm with only one or two listens.
Ger-maican!!! Love that! I kind of understand. Ive lived in Texas my whole life. I used to really love it, until recently, because of the horrible state government (wanting to take us back to the 1930s-1940s. ) I feel like I'm a Blue dot in a sea of Red, if you get my drift. I visited a friend there 30 years ago and fell in love with the North California area. I would love to live there, especially since my old friend may not live too much longer, but I'm stuck her for the next few years .
Yeah, it's really unfortunate. My mom lives in Texas, and I've had a few "not friendly" situations happen for zero reason...so that adds to the already tarnished view I have of having to navigate if I'd be accepted. Now, dont get me wrong...my life is FAR more inclusive and good than it's ever been racially negative...but I absolutely have dealt with a number of incidents regarding my race. And it's just like the cliche...a few bad apples can spoil the bunch. And that's what seems to have happened. I've met SO many absolutely amazing and wonderful people in the south. NorCal is absolutely stunning. Califonrina is just too expensive...otherwise, that's where we'd probably be. San Diego is my favorite place I've ever lived. I hope you can get up there while there's still time to enjoy it!!! Sincerly...Germaicn J 🤘🏽😎🤘🏽
@@musikbyjh Luckily, the place I'd like to live is almost exactly halfway between San Francisco and Sacramento. And it's not real expensive, just a few minutes drive from my friend's home. I visited him in June and it was amazing to have 50 degree nights (it's usually still 90 degrees around midnight here in the summer). 🥵
Oh absolutely!!! I only brought up the slides and breaths because THOSE get taken out of music. Bends and vibrato cant really be taken out in post. But yes...all of that is just pure feeling!! I love it!
Thanks but my ears work just fine. And Austin and Tim were talking about leaving the South and collaborating with Chris to write this and it became the title track of the album. Tim is from Texas and Austin is from Georgia and Chance is from Alabama.
Dixie is referring to the southeastern states and Texas - the states of the Confederacy. Right now, those states are trying to bring back the past instead of moving forward. I think the song is saying goodbye to those beliefs and that they have moved beyond them.
I don't believe they are trying to bring back the past. They are saying don't whitewash it like it never happened. If you ignore the past, you are destined to repeat it.
Not political, what is growing up other then making decisions, some correct, some mistakes, all to be taught from. A person on the edge of the nest, about to take flight into life on there own.
We loved the song - and also appreciate having such a good group here to have "hard" convos without being controversial. We just love you, Fries...especially you RUTH and WOLFE6220!!!
It was actually written by Tim, Chris Chatham, Austin, and Adam Wakefield from Texas hill. Such a beautiful song, absolutely loved Adam's no Monica, but i think it should have been louder than the guitar, the guitar kinda drowned it out too much for me, even though i love the sound of the guitar in there.
A lot of reactors lost a ton of Home Fries over this song, including me.....because they brought in some ridiculously racial aspect into this song. & thats just insane. Dixie is just the south. Nothing racial or prejudices about this song. Chance, Tim, & Austin are from the deep south "dixie", so this is just about leaving it to go fly into the world & explore & live life. Although being proud of where they come from. 🤷♀️❤ *Chance from deep south Alabama. Austin from south GA. Tim from southeast Texas. Adam & Rob from Minnesota, so not so dixie or Southern. 😂
This is the song Tim performed live at the end of his lecture at Western Michigan U. a few months ago, about using music to support social justice. It's a beautiful way to say he loves the south, but not its legacy of racism. He performed it with a few friends who came along -- including Chris Chatham (the guitarist in the video), and a guy from Detroit named....Adam Bastien. ;)
Tim is from Texas, Austin is from Georgia, Chance is from Alabama ( born in Florida) and Rob and Adam are from Minnesota. This is an absolutely beautiful song. I enjoyed watching your reactions to this song.
I wasn't quite sure what Jeremy's heritage was. I thought he might be biracial, but I suspect a lot of folks would have missed that.
This song arose out of a conversation Tim, Austin, and Adam Wakefield of Texas Hill had about the conflicted emotions of being from the South, and all the love of home you have contrasted with the negative feelings for some of the historic and current regressive attitudes, culture, and even laws.
They took a lot of flack for this song for being "woke" and blah blah blah. But I think a lot of folks from the South and South-adjacent areas also really resonated with it.
Tim did a lecture called Vocal Harmony for Social Harmony a few months ago where he talked about this song and then performed it with Chris Chatham, Grant Hendrickson of the Alley Cats, and Adam Bastien. This song means *a lot* to him.
Dixie is The South!! The story I heard was Tim and Austin Chris and Chance were talking about how there was lots of negativity in regards to the south. They were changing names of groups and towns. This was the response.
This nickname for the South has its origins in the Mason-Dixon Line, separating North from South.
This song is so beautiful and has so many potential meanings. From the aspect of Tim, Austin and Chance being from the south, they are proud of their upbringing yet there are negative aspects. For myself, it speaks to moving on from where you grew up and while there are things that you remember fondly, going back is not an option. It was especially poignant for me in accepting that the home I grew up in is no longer a part of my life. While the building is still there, it is no longer MY home. Where I live now is my HOME and where I take some of what I learned from my parents and use it to build my life now. Home Free did get some push back on this song, with people thinking they were turning their back on the south. Some people even took it to mean they were turning their back on country music. I see the song a song of love, pride, longing, sadness and hope in moving forward which everyone experiences in their own unique way.
Love this comment ;-)
exactly.
I come from a lot of guitar players. I love acoustic, and I always hear the slides and plucks. I love hearing them with an instrument too.
I was raised in a small town in the Midwest, but I knew I couldn't live there for my lifetime. This song speaks to me, too.
My fav original. Tim’s been open about saying this was about the South. I think as a southern “white” “man”, his values have changed from his upbringing. He’s been vocal about women’s rights and minority suppression. 💜💜💜
(Thanks to being a Patron, I got to watch the album discussion and have heard Tim and Austin talk about it in various bashes, too). Jeremy has it right. This was written in response to Adam Wakefield saying that he had always wanted to write a song called "So Long Dixie", but no one would write it with him. Tim and Austin took on the challenge, and Chatham formed the fantastic guitar track. It is about having to leave home to follow your dreams - all three 'southern' guys had to do that. And also about how not everything in the past is worth keeping - both personally and with the community. You try to be "better" than your parents, learning from their mistakes. It is both a love song to the Dixie that fostered them in their youth and a sad realization that Dixie could not and cannot fulfill everything for everyone. Tim and Austin are at least closer to home than they were for a while - MN, MA, OK, CA ... all places they had to live/work before HF.
I hear the slide all the time, but I just expect it to be there. Maybe because I have heard Chatham and Jefferey so much in more informal settings where it is always present.
The first time I heard this song I immediately thought of my Mom and her story as she left her home in Arkansas just after her high school graduation to go in the Army. Leaving the South and her family was hard, but it was what she needed to find who she was. She has always kept connected to her family & Southern roots, but she does not regret leaving. It was what she needed for her future.
@@teckiemom This song really resonated with me. When we got married, we moved halfway across the country to have a job that, at the time, was not a possibility where I grew up in ND. I loved growing up on a farm, but . . .
Tim, Austin, Chris Chatham & Adam Wakefield (of Texas Hill) co-wrote this. The singing, harmonies, Adam's percussion & Chris's guitar playing are incomparable. The message of the song - to my mind - is about leaving behind the "Dixie" of Confederate flags and all that denotes. With Tim being from southeast Texas, Austin from south Georgia & Chance from Alabama - the song is deep.
Another great original song! This is such a beautiful heartfelt melancholy song. Tim's lead was awesome along with all the guy's harmonies & Adam's harmonica sounds were great as usual. I don't mind having an instrument played once in awhile in a song. It was tastefully done in the background without taking over. It added a nice element. Also like the scenery in Colorado. I can't understand why some commenters have been really negative about the lyrics. They are truthful in saying that some of the south's past may not be pleasant but not all of it is. Our background & upbringing still makes us the person we are.
Some times Chance will use a guitar in the videos. "Born in the USA" and "Skull and Bones" comes to mind.
I love hearing the guitar slide and the breathing. Makes it more real. When they did the album introduction, Tim and Austin talked about how this was a song about having to leave home - not matter where home is - to make your way in the world. You never forget where you grew up and what you learned there, but you can't stay back there in the past forever.
Hone Fryday continues with an awesome Home Free Original!
In a stage show, Tim introduced this (I think it was this one) by saying, yes, there's guitar, so a cappella purists just (rude phrase here). He stands up for himself and others. You'll see it that in "Everybody Walkin' This Land", and a few other songs that set off "anti-woke" types. Home Free has sided with country artists like The Chicks (used to be The Dixie Chicks), and Maren Morris, who suffered nasty backlash for left-wing tendencies. "So Long Dixie" is about turning their backs on the negative side of Southern and country music culture.
Tim and Chance did a beautiful job on this song. The harmonies are beautiful and Adam did beautiful job on the harmonica sounds. Chris did a great job on the guitar.
Love this original.
Love this song. I heard it live in concert and Chris was there playing guitar, Austin had a “shaker” and also Adam’s wonderful soulful harmonica. It was so beautiful and the boys sat for this. Tim is from Texas, Chance from Alabama and Austin from Georgia. I think they meant they were sad they had to leave their homes to go up “north” to make music. I don’t think it’s deeper than that but it could be. It’s got a little double entendre.
The behind the scenes is hilarious they were all freezing to death! Especially Tim, they shot it in Denver Colorado. There was still snow on the ground in places outside of camera view. Tim states he co wrote this with Austin and Chris did the guitar parts and it was so nice they decided to leave it in.
Ok, just watched the new video release. Don't wait on it, you will be pleasantly surprised. Perfect song to showcase the new Home Free. Love this song too. One of my favorites to sing along too. Much Love xoxoxoxxox
React to "Something To Talk About" released today featuring Adam Bastein!
Can't wait!
This song when originally released was criticized strongly by several reactors, one was really angry that the south was being depicted this way. He of course totally missed the point. We should all learn from history whether good or bad. Southeastern history is certainly checkered but the same can be said for virtually any area of the country. Sometimes pride can be misplaced.
Y'all are ADORABLE together!
Yes, I believe that the original intent was about the South, but it can be easily interpreted to be applicable to anyone and anywhere about growing up and leaving home. (BTW Tim grew up in SE TX, Chance in S AL, & Austin in GA) IMO, something that is on the wrong end of a one-way road is something that's in the past and can never be revisited (time is a one-way road). Again, IMO, the song acknowledges the good of the past and the need to learn from the past mistakes. Being on the edge of The South (Oklahoma), this song resonates with me in both the Southern culture and life in general.
And the little breathes and guitar squeaks? To me, it makes the music and the musicians more real. So much music sounds non-human because over-production makes it sound sterile.
For me, the most important part of a song IS the lyrics; and there is no instrument more beautiful than the human voice (these human voices anyway). Tim and co-writers show amazing talent as lyricists here. They have what I call "souls of poets speaking their truths." I do, of course, love the music too, since that is what turns poetry into song. Chris' guitar was the perfect instrument to enhance these lyrics without overpowering them. I believe Jeremy did an excellent job interpreting the meaning, as did many of the comments from viewers here. The song is about loving home and all the good aspects of growing up in the South, while acknowledging that some things need/needed to change. Some people were offended by that idea, but strong positive or negative emotional reactions show how powerful this beautiful song really is. Gail L
I almost wore out my CD playing this one over and over again! The guitar and Adam's mouthmonica add a bunch to the melody.
They performed this song last year at our state fair because Chris was there to play guitar. One of my favorites!! Ninja, that comment about having a breath in the right place in a song can really add something, I immediately thought of Adam Lambert singing his version of Cher's Believe at the Kennedy Center Honors. If you haven't watched that video, do check it out. Love watching you on Home Fryday! ❤
I love how they kept this so clean, but true to the music as it is. The way Chance shines as the bass in the chorus is incredible. "dixie" upbringing was a "southern way of thinking" and social etiquette. It's there way of saying that they were raised well but they have also grown well to become the people they have become...so beautiful. At least that is how it hits me. We all take how we are raised and add to it our experiences in life to create the people we are. I think this was their way of saying "thank you" for raising them well ... a good start in life. They are admitting they had a good childhood, but to have more, they had to leave.
We love your take on this, Joy!!
This is so very awesome. Tim has so much talent as both a singer and song writer. Austin will be so very missed. They will never be the same without him. I understand why he left, and I am very happy for him and Amberly. I will keep listening to Austin. I am a true Austinite for life! Love your reactions!
"Austinite"!!! Love it!! 😍
This is one my favs, i love how the nomonica adds a somber note to the song, kinda hits you in the feels! Hi Ninja
Thank you for your wonderful reaction. Filmed in Colorado. Rupp nomonica always makes me 😊. Don’t wait: Bastien slayed his video debut with Home Free something to talk about fabulous! I want them to do more Motown and rock. 🥰
Just watched the première of the new video with Bastien, "Something to talk about". Love it, still not sure about him though...need more😉
It's unfair to judge by one song. It's going to be different. Change is not necessarily negative. It's a great new video. This song is a great original.
That's why I said: need more@@peggygross7409
Remember when Chance took over from Chris? A lot of people, including reactors, took a long time to warm to his very distinctive vocals. I love his voice. He's kind of introverted with a very dry sense of humour and it took folks a while to get used to his type of energy. Now, people actively look forward to hearing him take a lead in a song. I don't believe Bastien will be any different.
@@pennymaple1817 I loved Chance instantly. No offence to Chris, but Chance is an upgrade from Cris. And I just don't really like Bastiens voice, it's just a matter of taste. I'm not saying he's not a good singer because he is. I just need more songs to get used to him I guess. But knowing our guys, that won't be a problem😉
@@HannahSBax I did, too. Chance filled in their sound. I think we're likely to see more songs like Mayday where they mix things up. I can see it now. Everybody switch parts. They have the flexibility to do it.
J & J, your discussion about the song was insightful and seemed on point. Thank you for being so honest and funny!🥰
This song has always made me cry. I never had the choice of where to live next, but it was hard to move further and further away. Our last move was my choice, but I’m the least happy except at church. I live in the South and can understand why so many have left. So I think I understand the song better than I thought. Thank you for delving deeper with the lyrics. Makes me wish it had come out earlier. I love the guitar too. Tomorrow! 🎶 Cyd
I tend to watch a new video at least half a dozen times before I catch all the different bits. Once through for song, once for video, then more so I can watch each guy individually too. For the video they premiered today I watched more like a dozen, just excited for Bastien.
When this came out, listened to it on repeat. It was a verbal expression of a feeling that I had. I’m in the south and wouldn’t change it, but it’s been a struggle sometimes to redefine how the south would shape me.
I do like it when you explain things I don't know
Stop as much as you need, I'm here to learn
Thank you for this, Hannah ;-)
Agreed. If anyone doesn't like it, they can always watch the original video too.
What Hannah said
Love this song and loved your dialogue analyzing the lyrics.
They filmed this in the Denver, CO area when they were here for their Christmas tour a couple years ago. We had the pleasure of Chris joining them on stage for a few songs.
Back in the sixtys and seventies with the live variety shows we heard the finger slides and breaths a lot more that now. The finger slides were more prominent with casuistic guitars. Not so mush with electric using flat strings.
Yeah, back then it just would have been way more tedious to take those things out. Technology has made that so easy...which is why its nice to hear now, becuase you forget that it should be there. Also, flat strings? I'm not sure what youre referring to there. There are "Flatwound" strings...but I've never been around anyone who actually uses those. All my strings are roundwound...and you definitely can hear the string slides depending on your settings.
Such a beautiful song with rich, powerful lyrics! #HomeFree never disappoints and I like to think of this original about appreciating where you're from and growing and building upon it in the best way. (I don't consider it disrespectful but about maturing and taking the best of your upbringing and building upon it.)
I love this song a lot, one of my favorites. Jeremy, I get the fondness of hearing the guitar strings being played. We know that in a studio, usually baby powder is used to dampen that sound, but I love when it’s left in. For a great example of string squeak check out “I’m Carryin’” by Paul McCartney on the Londontown album. It’s a beautiful song and you can actually hear the instrument being played.
Beautiful song. ( Chris is now in central Florida. At least he was last i heard) Thanks for the Home Free reactions.
Chris Rupp moved to Florida. Chatham is still in Tennessee last I heard.
Yes, he is in TN.
Oh wow. Jeremy, that’s my favorite thing with the strings, that real "noise." I’m always so happy listening to Chris playing. He is a wonderful musician. By the by, I want to hear about the microphones and sound stuff. It is never too late to learn new things musically, so I appreciate your take on this stuff. Somebody told me I was too old once to do anything in music. But maybe I’m not. Just maybe not. We will see. I love your take on this song. I think this is coming from Tim’s heart. He wrote it and, in my mind, it seems like he really wanted it to sound a certain way and reflect his feelings about leaving the "South" mentality behind. Maybe not, but that's what I get from it. It’s Colorado btw (I think anyway).
DANI!!!! It's never too late my friend. I didnt even START engineering until I was 30. It's not about age...it's more about who you know and the opportunities around you. You can learn anything you need to. And to be honest, a lot of what I do, I learned ON the gigs. I had to learn broadcast terminology, and gear that isn't typically used in studios. So it's never too late my friend. You just gotta find the right person to give you a chance, and then you're in.
Thanks for saying all that. It really means probably more than you think. I have another friend that didn't really start until his 30s, and he has a great full-time career gigging in Annapolis and on the Eastern Shore of MD. I started having kids in my 30s, so that kind of took precedence. Now that I'm older, I'm ready to follow a dream, but I'm also tired lol. I still think there might be a place for me and perhaps somewhere for me to offer some of my talents. Anyway, love you guys and your positive energy. It makes my day better when I watch your stuff and gives me hope in the end. And, well, that's just everything, isn't it? Can't wait for your HF reaction Friday on the Bonnie Raitt song, who is another artist who "made it" later in life. I just love her, and HF's version is amazing because the arrangement is just kind of hard to put into words because it's that good, in my opinion. Whew, I'm wordy today! Go figure ;)
I do appreciate when you do the lyric analysis, but also appreciate when you point out things instrumentally/vocally/engineering wise that I may have missed. Sometimes I've listened to songs countless times and missed something you point out. We all have our way of listening and it's nice when things get pointed out that you missed because then you can appreciate that. I like listening to different reactors to catch things I missed. I think as Ninja alluded to lyrics can be a bit subjective. Obviously they have their own meaning to the artist, but, a lot of songs and a lot of lyrics can be sort of adapted from person to person to mean something specific to them. I think that's part of the power of music. Some of my takeaways from the lyrics were acknowledging how he was raised and how it made him who he is, the past is the past and it's made you who you are, but concentrate on the present. For me personally it resonates in leaving the town I grew up in, experiencing other people and other places. But, I think that even if you stay in your hometown, the lyrics can kind of represent growing into your own person. Some people do that more than others. Another thought I had, the small town type of thing that you guys are from (and me) and left, somebody else might love to move there from the hustle and bustle of a big city, so there could be kind of an opposite path for some people. But ultimately, it's about growing, becoming your own person, not getting hung up on the past, but appreciating what it made you. It's very interesting to me because there are a lot of articles about how certain people primarily listen to music and certain people primarily notice lyrics, and some people kind of have a balance. So it's been interesting seeing Ninja pointing out the lyrics and see Jeremy thinking about them. Songs can even change meaning to people based on their current circumstances. For me, one of the really powerful things is feeling the meaning of a song with no lyrics.
This is a pretty one.love Chris's guitar!!Tim's a great songwriter
Chance is from the middle of nowhere Alabama, Tim is from a tiny place in Texas.
It's a good bye from home and addressing that there are issues and history that isn't good. Yes, it is the about being from the south. Tim was very clear about this, he used the song as an example in a university lecture
Watching him be tearful when spaking on it was inpactful. How much hes changed personally from what was socially execeptable back then (gay jokes ect.) To working on bettering himself and being a part of that change now. Hes an outspoken guy, but when you see how he is away from being a performer, hes a deeply caring and thoughtful man. Never be fooled by the off color humor haha.
And Austin from Tifton GA (where Mr handsome was born!!!) Which is also small town middle of nowhere south GA. ❤❤
@@princessButtercupp I wish I could have been there to listen to his lecture. The more I learn about Tim, the more impressed I am with him. As a singer, songwriter, arranger, public speaker, humorist, and just a wonderful, caring human being.
Hello J & J! This is a wonderful original song. I think it hits differently if you're from the South, like I am. The guys did a great job as they usually do & I love the guitar here from Chris. Great reaction! ❤
Ninja I love it that you get excited for home fry day
Probably one of my top top #1s : ) By these guys! It's so so damn good. I want to type-out a whole thought/take on it ... but, sadly - I'm limited (hmmm). Another one by these guys that would be top of the charts on radio -- (so) if the masses were to get it. Chatham is nearly a soloist here -- stand-a-lone ... intentional in blending right in and adds to; another very rare occurrence (not just HF with this configuration). EPIC really. So many things can be taken from the song (words) and they deliver 'em in such an understanding way --- gives it feel, gives it life. Phenomenal !!!! Be Safe
Adam Chance is from "Lower Alabama" just northeast of Mobile.
Tim & Chris Chatham wrote this one ♥️❤️🔥🔥❤️🔥♥️
LOL, best laugh of the day! Regarding the lyrics...Tim, Austin and Chance grew up in the deep south. Dixie refers more to the bad things that went on in the South. I think the song acknowledges that, but says it's in the past. We're not like that. (The Dixie Chicks dropped "Dixie" from their name for a reason.)
Love this song.
Lots of backlash, when this came out, from diehard acapella fans who didn't like the use of the guitar. It does lend a more melancholy feel. Adam's nomomica isn't as prominent as some of us would like. But, very enjoyable song, nonetheless, as it shows their versatility. Quickly becomes an ear worm with only one or two listens.
Ger-maican!!! Love that!
I kind of understand. Ive lived in Texas my whole life. I used to really love it, until recently, because of the horrible state government (wanting to take us back to the 1930s-1940s. )
I feel like I'm a Blue dot in a sea of Red, if you get my drift.
I visited a friend there 30 years ago and fell in love with the North California area. I would love to live there, especially since my old friend may not live too much longer, but I'm stuck her for the next few years .
Yeah, it's really unfortunate. My mom lives in Texas, and I've had a few "not friendly" situations happen for zero reason...so that adds to the already tarnished view I have of having to navigate if I'd be accepted. Now, dont get me wrong...my life is FAR more inclusive and good than it's ever been racially negative...but I absolutely have dealt with a number of incidents regarding my race. And it's just like the cliche...a few bad apples can spoil the bunch. And that's what seems to have happened. I've met SO many absolutely amazing and wonderful people in the south.
NorCal is absolutely stunning. Califonrina is just too expensive...otherwise, that's where we'd probably be. San Diego is my favorite place I've ever lived. I hope you can get up there while there's still time to enjoy it!!!
Sincerly...Germaicn J 🤘🏽😎🤘🏽
@@musikbyjh Luckily, the place I'd like to live is almost exactly halfway between San Francisco and Sacramento. And it's not real expensive, just a few minutes drive from my friend's home. I visited him in June and it was amazing to have 50 degree nights (it's usually still 90 degrees around midnight here in the summer). 🥵
I'd add bends and vibrato to slides for the organic feel they bring to recorded strings.
Oh absolutely!!! I only brought up the slides and breaths because THOSE get taken out of music. Bends and vibrato cant really be taken out in post. But yes...all of that is just pure feeling!! I love it!
This is Colorado...outside of Denver.
#HOMEFREE
The SOUTH !!
Thanks but my ears work just fine. And Austin and Tim were talking about leaving the South and collaborating with Chris to write this and it became the title track of the album. Tim is from Texas and Austin is from Georgia and Chance is from Alabama.
❤️❤️
Dixie is referring to the southeastern states and Texas - the states of the Confederacy. Right now, those states are trying to bring back the past instead of moving forward. I think the song is saying goodbye to those beliefs and that they have moved beyond them.
Please don’t paint all of us with the same brush! North Carolina is a very different from Texas.
I don't believe they are trying to bring back the past. They are saying don't whitewash it like it never happened.
If you ignore the past, you are destined to repeat it.
To me this heartbreaking Tim and i are from the same town I've also left not as far but its an area and customs that are no where else
I aleays notice string slides!
Dixie is the South, but to me it applies to wherever you grew up,
Not political, what is growing up other then making decisions, some correct, some mistakes, all to be taught from. A person on the edge of the nest, about to take flight into life on there own.
Great thoughts, George!! Thank you 😊
They got alot of shit for this song. People unfollowed them because of it. It's my favorite original
They (especially Tim) got s#it for a lot of things. People needs to realize that the guys are allowed to have their own thoughts and opinions, lol!
We loved the song - and also appreciate having such a good group here to have "hard" convos without being controversial. We just love you, Fries...especially you RUTH and WOLFE6220!!!
@@wolfe6220 I agree ❤
@musikbyjh we love you!!! 🥰🥰
It was actually written by Tim, Chris Chatham, Austin, and Adam Wakefield from Texas hill. Such a beautiful song, absolutely loved Adam's no Monica, but i think it should have been louder than the guitar, the guitar kinda drowned it out too much for me, even though i love the sound of the guitar in there.
@@pastelcarnations I think the nomonica part was just right.
@@peggygross7409 that's just for my liking.
& its "chat-um". Not chath um. 😉😉😉❤❤
They received some flack for this one. Saying they were " demeaning the south and upbringing.
A lot of reactors lost a ton of Home Fries over this song, including me.....because they brought in some ridiculously racial aspect into this song. & thats just insane. Dixie is just the south. Nothing racial or prejudices about this song. Chance, Tim, & Austin are from the deep south "dixie", so this is just about leaving it to go fly into the world & explore & live life. Although being proud of where they come from. 🤷♀️❤ *Chance from deep south Alabama. Austin from south GA. Tim from southeast Texas. Adam & Rob from Minnesota, so not so dixie or Southern. 😂
Another goody, do they ever do bad “ stuff” lol….
This is the song Tim performed live at the end of his lecture at Western Michigan U. a few months ago, about using music to support social justice. It's a beautiful way to say he loves the south, but not its legacy of racism. He performed it with a few friends who came along -- including Chris Chatham (the guitarist in the video), and a guy from Detroit named....Adam Bastien. ;)
He's messing up everyone's vibe!
We fixed it. 😍