John Denver was an American singer-songwriter and folk musician, known for his heartfelt songs about nature, love, and the American experience.
He rose to fame in the 1970s with hits like “Take Me Home, Country Roads” and “Rocky Mountain High.” Denver’s warm, soothing voice and timeless lyrics made him a beloved figure in the world of country and folk music.
Throughout his career, he was also an advocate for environmental conservation and humanitarian causes.
About the Song
Take Me Home, Country Roads is one of John Denver’s most famous songs, capturing the essence of longing and connection to nature.
Its simple yet powerful lyrics and memorable melody have made it a beloved anthem. The song evokes a sense of peace and homecoming, and it remains a favorite at sing-alongs and in popular culture.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Released | April 6, 1971 |
| Album | Poems, Prayers & Promises |
| Writers | John Denver, Bill Danoff & Taffy Nivert Danoff |
| Producers | Susan Ruskin & Milton Okun. |
Lyrics of Take Me Home, Country Roads by John Denver
Verse 1
Almost Heaven, West Virginia
Blue Ridge Mountains, Shenandoah River
Life is old there, older than the trees
Younger than the mountains, growing like a breeze
Chorus
Country roads, take me home
To the place I belong
West Virginia, mountain mama
Take me home, country roads
Verse 2
All my memories gather ’round her
Miner’s lady, stranger to blue water
Dark and dusty, painted on the sky
Misty taste of moonshine, teardrop in my eye
Chorus
Country roads, take me home
To the place I belong
West Virginia, mountain mama
Take me home, country roads
Bridge
I hear her voice in the morning hour, she calls me
The radio reminds me of my home far away
Driving down the road, I get a feeling
That I should have been home yesterday, yesterday
Chorus
Country roads, take me home
To the place I belong
West Virginia, mountain mama
Take me home, country roads
Country roads, take me home
To the place I belong
West Virginia, mountain mama
Take me home, country roads
[Outro]
Take me home, (Down) country roads
Take me home, (Down) country roads
Live Performance of Take Me Home, Country Roads
Similar Songs Like Take Me Home, Country Road
Here are some songs that have a similar vibe to Take Me Home, Country Road, matching its slow and dreamy style.
- Rocky Mountain High: Captures the changing power of wilderness, blending wonder and self-reflection. Denver’s lyrics evoke happiness in finding solace in the mountains.
- Annie’s Song: A heartfelt tribute to Annie, likening her to the beauty of nature.. The melody swells with warmth, embodying the simplicity of romantic commitment.
- Sunshine on My Shoulders: This is a reflection on how small natural wonders uplift the spirit. The song radiates calmness and gratitude for life’s fleeting moments.
Similar Artists to John Denver
These similar artists share stylistic or thematic similarities with John Denver.
- James Taylor
Genre: Folk, Soft Rock
Top Album: Sweet Baby James (1970) - Gordon Lightfoot
Genre: Folk, Country, Rock
Top Album: If You Could Read My Mind (1970) - Jim Croce
Genre: Folk Rock, Pop
Top Album: You Don’t Mess Around with Jim (1972) - Cat Stevens
Genre: Folk Rock, Pop
Top Album: Tea for the Tillerman (1970)
Awards for The Song
| Achievement | Year |
|---|---|
| Library of Congress National Recording Registry | 2023 |
| RIAA Platinum Certification | 2017 |
| Official State Song of West Virginia | 2014 |
| RIAA Gold Certification | 1971 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What State is Celebrated in the Song?
West Virginia is the state celebrated in the song, referred to as “Almost Heaven, West Virginia.”
Has the Song Achieved any Special Status in West Virginia?
Yes, in 2014, it was designated as one of the official state songs of West Virginia.
What’s the Main Road Referred to in the Song?
The song mentions “Blue Ridge Mountains, Shenandoah River” but doesn’t specify a particular road by number.
