South Carolina Named New Official State Song

Governor Henry McMaster designated the track 'Carolina When I Die' as the state's third official anthem.

Updated on Oct. 1, 2026 in Country

South Carolina Named New Official State Song

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South Carolina has officially added the song 'Carolina When I Die' to its list of state anthems. Governor Henry McMaster announced the designation during a recent event held in Charleston.

Why it matters

The designation serves to codify a musical work that leadership believes captures the state's story and identity. It marks the first time the state has updated its official song list in over four decades.

South Carolina now recognizes three official state songs in total. The state previously adopted 'Carolina' in 1911 and 'South Carolina on My Mind' in 1984.

The players

Henry McMaster

He is the current Governor of South Carolina who officially designated the song.

Patrick Davis

He is the songwriter who penned the newly designated state song.

Darius Rucker

He is a prominent musician and featured artist on the song Carolina When I Die.

Edwin McCain

He is a recording artist who performed as a featured artist on the track.

The details

Governor Henry McMaster hosted songwriters and performers to celebrate the recognition of the song written by Patrick Davis. The track features contributions from well-known artists Darius Rucker and Edwin McCain.

1911: Adoption of 'Carolina' as the first official state song.
1984: Designation of 'South Carolina on My Mind' as a state song.
September 30, 2026: Governor McMaster announced the new state song designation.

Industry Dynamics

This move adds a contemporary track to a list that has remained static since the 1984 adoption of South Carolina on My Mind. It reflects a shift in how state legislatures choose to formally recognize modern cultural contributions alongside historical anthems.

Residents can now identify this song as an official state symbol, potentially increasing its presence in public ceremonies and school curricula. The designation does not impact streaming access or commercial pricing for the music.

The takeaway

States often use official designations to reinforce a sense of regional identity through shared cultural media. Residents may see this track featured more prominently in state-sponsored events moving forward.