Introduction
“Carolina to Me” is a heartfelt country song by American singer Scotty McCreery, released on August 27, 2021, as part of his fifth studio album, Same Truck, which debuted on September 17, 2021. Co-written with Taylor Phillips and Jeremy Bussey, the song serves as a personal ode to McCreery’s deep affection for his home state of North Carolina.
In “Carolina to Me,” McCreery reflects on his upbringing, contrasting traditional religious imagery with his own experiences. While many envision heaven with pearly gates and streets of gold, he associates these concepts with the familiar sights and sounds of North Carolina. He sings about “longleaf pines lined on Tobacco Road” and memories of his grandfather fishing with a Zebco 33, illustrating how his personal paradise aligns with his homeland.
Beyond its musical release, the song holds significant personal meaning for McCreery. Following the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene in 2024, he donated a portion of the song’s proceeds to Samaritan’s Purse, aiding in the region’s recovery efforts. He expressed, “The people of North Carolina and the surrounding region are still struggling from the aftermath of Hurricane Helene and need our support on the long road to recovery.”
“Carolina to Me” exemplifies McCreery’s ability to blend personal narrative with traditional country elements, creating a song that resonates with listeners through its authenticity and deep connection to his roots.