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House lauds Drew Holcomb as author of newly designated state song 'Tennessee'
Summary
The House honored musician Drew Holcomb and his family as the authors-performers of the song designated as an official state song; the sponsor and a tourism commissioner framed the recognition as promotion for state parks and tourism, and Holcomb addressed members on the floor.
The Tennessee House formally recognized songwriter Drew Holcomb after Representative Barrett introduced a resolution marking the designation of Holcomb’s song "Tennessee" as an official state song.
Representative Barrett explained the family’s ties across the state and the song’s role in promoting Tennessee tourism; Commissioner Mark Ezell said the Department of Tourist Development partnered with Holcomb in 2020 on a statewide promotion that drew millions of views. "This song proves that every time it’s being sung," the commissioner said in praise of the Holcomb family's outreach work.
Drew Holcomb accepted the recognition on the floor and spoke about his roots in Memphis, time at the University of Tennessee and career in music. He reflected on the meaning of the song and the state, and members invited him and his family for a photo at the well.
The resolution was ceremonial and recorded on the House calendar; no funding or statutory change was part of the recognition.
