South Carolina Named Carolina When I Die State Song
Governor Henry McMaster designated the musical track as the third official state song of South Carolina.
Updated on Oct. 2, 2026 in Reggae
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South Carolina has officially designated Carolina When I Die as its third state song. The announcement was made by Governor Henry McMaster and features vocals from musicians Darius Rucker and Edwin McCain.
Why it matters
The designation formally elevates the track to a symbol of state identity alongside other official musical representations. It recognizes the cultural impact of the song and the artists involved in its production.
The designation marks the third official state song for South Carolina. Early in their career, Hootie and the Blowfish performed approximately 15 shows paid exclusively in beer.
The players
Henry McMaster
He is the Governor of South Carolina who officially announced the new state song designation.
Darius Rucker
He is a prominent musician and lead singer who provided vocals for the newly honored state song.
Edwin McCain
He is a well-known recording artist who collaborated on the track recently selected as a state song.
Hootie and the Blowfish
They are a popular band that got its start performing at the University of South Carolina.
The details
The song features performances by Darius Rucker and Edwin McCain, both of whom have deep ties to the regional music scene. In their early days performing at the University of South Carolina, the band famously used PA systems borrowed through a friend in the show choir for frat gigs.
Timeline
1980s: Hootie and the Blowfish performed early college fraternity gigs.
October 2, 2026: Carolina When I Die was officially designated as a state song.
Industry Dynamics
This designation reflects a broader trend of states codifying local musical heritage into official symbols to preserve cultural identity. It follows the established pattern of South Carolina official state song statutes, which have previously been used to catalog regional artistic contributions.
Residents and music fans can expect increased airplay and institutional recognition of the track at state events. The recognition validates the song as a primary cultural asset for the state of South Carolina.
The takeaway
Musical compositions recognized as state symbols often gain a permanent place in local civic ceremonies and educational curricula. This designation serves to memorialize the creative history of artists who developed their craft within the state university system.
Further reading
Learn more about local music trends in the South Carolina Reggae section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by VICE.
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