7 Songs Like Devil Went Down to Georgia: Stories in Songs

Hello music enthusiasts and DJ magicians! Ready to take a fiddle-playing journey through the captivating world of storytelling songs? Inspired by the classic “The Devil Went Down to Georgia,” we’re setting off on a musical adventure to explore seven songs that weave enthralling tales, filled with trials, tribulations, and toe-tapping tunes.

Whether you’re searching for a new track to mix into your DJ set or just a passionate music lover seeking to unearth hidden gems, these rhythmic narratives are sure to hit the right note.

So, grab your headphones, and let’s dive into the lyrical labyrinth!

Here are the songs like Devil Went Down to Georgia that you can check out:

List Of Songs Like Devil Went Down to Georgia

Songs like Devil Went Down to Georgia in a list format:

1. “The Ballad of Billy the Kid” by Billy Joel

Off his 1973 album “Piano Man,” released by Columbia Records, Billy Joel’s “The Ballad of Billy the Kid” is a musical journey that mixes fact and fiction about the infamous Wild West outlaw. The epic piano melodies and captivating storytelling make it a remarkable narrative song, much like “The Devil Went Down to Georgia.”

2. “Pancho and Lefty” by Willie Nelson and Merle Haggard

A cornerstone of outlaw country, “Pancho and Lefty,” from the 1983 album of the same name, is a heartfelt tale of a Mexican bandit and his companion. Released by Epic Records, it’s a storytelling masterpiece from Willie Nelson and Merle Haggard, filled with vivid imagery and raw emotion.

3. “American Pie” by Don McLean

This legendary ballad from Don McLean’s 1971 album, “American Pie,” released by United Artists Records, is often regarded as an allegorical chronicle of “The Day the Music Died.” Like the Devil’s fiddle contest, McLean uses music as a metaphor for a more significant event.

4. “A Boy Named Sue” by Johnny Cash

Off the 1969 live album “At San Quentin,” under Columbia Records, Johnny Cash’s “A Boy Named Sue” tells a humorous yet emotional tale of a young man’s quest for revenge against his absentee father. The song’s energetic pace and vibrant storytelling make it a compelling listen.

5. “Hurricane” by Bob Dylan

Bob Dylan’s “Hurricane,” from the 1976 album “Desire,” released by Columbia Records, recounts the real-life story of boxer Rubin “Hurricane” Carter and his wrongful imprisonment. The song’s lyrical depth and Dylan’s passionate delivery paint a vivid narrative that leaves an enduring impact.

6. “Copperhead Road” by Steve Earle

From the 1988 album “Copperhead Road,” released by Uni Records, Steve Earle’s title track tells the gripping tale of a Vietnam War veteran embroiled in the illegal liquor business in rural Tennessee. Its hard-driving beat and striking storytelling make it a great tune for fans of narrative songs.

7. “The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald” by Gordon Lightfoot

Released by Reprise Records on the 1976 album “Summertime Dream,” Gordon Lightfoot’s “The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald” recounts the tragic sinking of an American freighter on Lake Superior. Lightfoot’s haunting melody and attention to detail creates a poignant, unforgettable narrative song.

Fun Facts: Tracks Like Devil Went Down to Georgia

“The Ballad of Billy the Kid” by Billy Joel

While Billy Joel’s “The Ballad of Billy the Kid” is primarily a fictionalized account of the life of William H. Bonney, there’s an interesting twist: the final verse unexpectedly shifts focus to Billy Joel himself. The song artfully connects the Old West’s lawless spirit to the freedoms enjoyed by a young man growing up in the 20th-century suburbs of Long Island, NY.

“Pancho and Lefty” by Willie Nelson and Merle Haggard

“Pancho and Lefty” is a cover of a song originally written and performed by Townes Van Zandt. The song has been interpreted in many ways, and its elusive meaning only adds to its appeal. Interestingly, Van Zandt once hinted that the song might not be about two individuals but two sides of one person’s character.

“American Pie” by Don McLean

Don McLean has been famously secretive about the precise meaning of the lyrics in “American Pie.” For many years, he would only say that the song was about “the death of America’s innocence.” It wasn’t until the song’s original manuscript went up for auction in 2015 that McLean offered more insight, stating that it’s a morality song about the shift from an era of innocence to the darker times that followed.

“A Boy Named Sue” by Johnny Cash

“A Boy Named Sue” was penned by celebrated children’s book author Shel Silverstein, who was known for his humor and creativity. The song was first performed by Cash at San Quentin State Prison and was recorded live. Interestingly, the laughter in the background was due to a last-minute decision to use a ‘bleep’ to cover a line in the song.

“Hurricane” by Bob Dylan

“Hurricane” played a key role in bringing attention to the case of Rubin “Hurricane” Carter. After the song’s release, a campaign for Carter’s release gained momentum, leading to a retrial. While the song is celebrated for its activism, it also faced controversy and legal action due to its portrayal of the individuals involved in Carter’s trial.

“Copperhead Road” by Steve Earle

“Copperhead Road” is notable for its blending of rock and bluegrass sounds, a unique synthesis that Steve Earle termed “power twang.” The titular Copperhead Road is a real street in East Tennessee, though the characters and events in the song are fictional.

“The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald” by Gordon Lightfoot

Gordon Lightfoot was inspired to write “The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald” after reading an article about the ship’s sinking in a newspaper. He’s noted that the song’s melody came to him all at once, and he’s described it as being like a “film score.” Despite its somber topic, the song became a major hit and is often considered one of Lightfoot’s finest works.

That’s our musical journey through seven vivid narrative songs!

We’ve rode with outlaws, survived maritime disasters, and even braved a tempestuous court case.

Whether you’re a DJ seeking to add depth to your set, or a music aficionado exploring narrative songwriting, these tracks offer an unforgettable adventure.

Until next time, keep those records spinning!

Thanks for reading.

TBone