These 7 Songs About New Mexico Will Touch Your Soul Today
Juliet White
Author
Musicians past and present have paid tribute to New Mexico in their songs. It’s always fun when you hear your hometown or state mentioned in lyrics, but these songs go further – paying tribute to specific towns, events, and locations that make New Mexico what it is. Here are 7 songs about the Land of Enchantment that will fill you with pride and get your toes tapping to that New Mexico beat!
- “Taos, New Mexico” by Waylon Jennings
The late Waylon Jennings was the pioneer of the Outlaw movement in country music, and frequently wrote about the American Southwest. So, if you’re looking for love, head to Taos in winter!
2. “Worst Comes To Worst” by Billy Joel
This song is all about a mysterious woman in New Mexico. It appeared on the 1973 album, “Piano Man.”, arguably the legendary rocker’s most famous album. It’s one of the deeper cuts – but New Mexico residents know it’s a gem!
3. “Albuquerque” by Neil Young
This song was on Young’s 1975 album “Tonight’s the Night.” A laid-back tale of driving down the road and the solitude that brings, it perfectly captures the feel of exploring the New Mexico roads. And who hasn’t wanted fried eggs and country ham after listening to that third verse?
4. “New Mexico Rain” by Bill and Bonnie Hearne
Those outside of New Mexico might not even know about Bill and Bonnie Hearne, but this sight-impaired musical couple are Santa Fe legends. A poignant tale of love against all the odds, this might be one of the best songs about New Mexico you’ve never heard of.
5. “Point Me In The Direction Of Albuquerque” by The Partridge Family
Tony Romeo wrote this song and also “I Think I Love You.” The Partridge Family were musical legends in the 1970s, and this breezy ballad of finding love and losing it at a bus station has stood the test of time.
6. “O Fair New Mexico” by Busy McCarroll
McCarroll performed this song at Zozobra in 2014. “O Fair New Mexico” is our state song, which was written by Elizabeth Garrett, the daughter of Sheriff Pat Garrett. McCarroll is another New Mexico legend who may not be well-known outside the state, but her rendition is packed with bilingual flair.
7. “Feels Like Home (New Mexico True)” by Richmond
One of the younger musical artists on this list, this Albuquerque-based band has gained popularity for their old-school country energy. The New Mexico Tourism Department has used this song to promote our state!
What’s your favorite song about New Mexico? Let us know in the comments section, and check out the state’s tourism bureau if you want to know more about the places in the song. If you’re looking for a unique New Mexico attraction worth singing about, consider this riverfront resort!
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New Mexico, unsurprisingly, is a huge haven for Mexican cuisine. You'll find some of the best tacos, burritos, mole, and other specialties in the United States here. However, if the Land of Enchantment has one uniquely New Mexico dish, it has to be the Green Chile Cheeseburger. This spicy twist on the traditional burger has become a fan favorite, and great examples can be found all around the state.
What Are The Best Things About Living In New Mexico?
New Mexico residents get the advantages of living in the United States while also experiencing elements of the culture of its neighbor to the south. The state also has a rich Native American culture, with tribes owning impressive casinos and resorts around the state and the Native cuisine scene in the state growing fast. Santa Fe, the state's capital, is one of the nation's most popular states for retirees as well.
What Are The Most Beautiful Places In New Mexico?
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