About the song
“The Devil Went Down to Georgia” by The Charlie Daniels Band is an electrifying tale of a fiddling showdown between a young boy named Johnny and the devil himself. Written by Charlie Daniels, Fred Edwards, Tom Crain, Taz DiGregorio, and Charlie Hayward, the song was featured on the band’s 1979 album “Million Mile Reflections.”
This iconic Southern rock and country crossover hit soared to the top of the charts upon its release, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and number three on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Its unique blend of country, bluegrass, and rock elements, coupled with Daniels’ distinctive storytelling style, captivated audiences around the world.
“The Devil Went Down to Georgia” tells the story of Johnny, a skilled fiddler, who is challenged to a fiddle duel by the devil himself. With his soul on the line, Johnny gives it his all, engaging in a fierce musical battle that showcases his virtuosity and determination to triumph over evil.
The song’s infectious energy, dynamic instrumentation, and vivid narrative have solidified its place as a timeless classic in the realm of American music. Its memorable lyrics and unforgettable fiddle solo have made it a staple of radio airplay and live performances for decades.
With its catchy melody and compelling storyline, “The Devil Went Down to Georgia” continues to captivate audiences of all ages, earning its rightful place as one of the most beloved and enduring songs in the country music genre.
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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.