About the song
“**The Devil Went Down to Georgia**” by the Charlie Daniels Band is a quintessential piece of American music history, first released in 1979. This iconic song, rich with storytelling and musical prowess, stands out as a landmark in the country and Southern rock genres. The song was penned by Charlie Daniels himself, whose masterful fiddle playing and compelling lyrics brought the tale of a fiddle duel between a young man named Johnny and the Devil to life.
Featured on the album **”Million Mile Reflections,”** “The Devil Went Down to Georgia” achieved tremendous success, reaching number three on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and securing a lasting place in the hearts of music lovers. The song’s vivid narrative and dynamic instrumental arrangement, particularly the fiery fiddle solos, captured the imagination of audiences across generations.
Over the years, the song has not only been a staple on country and rock radio but has also inspired numerous covers and references in popular culture. Its blend of high stakes, gripping storytelling, and exceptional musicianship continues to make it a favorite among listeners, old and new alike. Charlie Daniels’ performance and the song’s memorable chorus ensure that “The Devil Went Down to Georgia” remains a timeless classic, celebrated for its artistic brilliance and enduring appeal.
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Lyrics
The Devil went down to Georgia. He was lookin’ for a soul to steal.
He was in a bind ’cause he was way behind and he was willing to make a deal
When he came across this young man sawin’ on a fiddle and playin’ it hot.
And the Devil jumped upon a hickory stump and said, “Boy, let me tell you what.”“I guess you didn’t know it, but I’m a fiddle player, too.
And if you’d care to take a dare I’ll make a bet with you.
Now you play a pretty good fiddle, boy, but give the Devil his due.
I’ll bet a fiddle of gold against your soul ’cause I think I’m better than you.”The boy said, “My name’s Johnny, and it might be a sin,
But I’ll take your bet; you’re gonna regret ’cause I’m the best there’s ever been.”Johnny, rosin up your bow and play your fiddle hard.
‘Cause Hell’s broke loose in Georgia and the Devil deals the cards.
And if you win you get this shiny fiddle made of gold,
But if you lose the Devil gets your soul.The Devil opened up his case and he said, “I’ll start this show.”
And fire flew from his fingertips as he rosined up his bow.
And he pulled the bow across the strings and it made an evil hiss.
And a band of demons joined in and it sounded something like this.When the Devil finished, Johnny said, “Well, you’re pretty good, old son,
But sit down in that chair right there, let me show you how it’s done.”“Fire on the Mountain”. Run, boys, run!
The Devil’s in the house of the rising sun;
Chicken in the bread pan picking out dough.
Granny, does your dog bite? No, child, no.The Devil bowed his head because he knew that he’d been beat.
And he laid that golden fiddle on the ground at Johnny’s feet.
Johnny said, “Devil, just come on back, if you ever wanna try again,
I done told you once, you son of a bitch, I’m the best that’s ever been.”
And he played:“Fire on the Mountain”. Run, boys, run!
Devil’s in the house of the rising sun;
The chicken in the bread pan picking out dough.
Granny, will your dog bite? No, child, no.