Arizona has two state songs: “The Arizona March Song” and “Arizona” or “I Love You Arizona.” Both songs celebrate the state’s natural beauty, with the former being a traditional marching song and the latter a sentimental ballad. State songs are played at important events to increase pride and bind residents to their state.
Part of the southwestern United States, Arizona has actually adopted two state songs. Arizona’s first state song, adopted in 1919, is called “The Arizona March Song.” This song was written in 1915 by Arizona pioneer Margaret Rowe Clifford, with accompanying music composed by Maurice Blumenthal. Arizona’s second state song, adopted in 1982, is a ballad called “Arizona” or “I Love You Arizona.” The lyrics and music for this song were created by Rex Allen Jr., country singer, actor, songwriter and film narrator.
Arizona is a geographically diverse state. It contains within its borders deserts, mountains, forests and even the Grand Canyon. The beauty of the state is reflected in both of Arizona’s state songs.
Arizona’s first state song, “The Arizona March Song,” consists of four verses and a chorus. This song chronicles the beauty of Arizona; the bright sun that fills the vast and beautiful desert, the cool valleys filled with rivers and the towering mountain ranges that seem to rise out of nowhere. The chorus reminds the people of Arizona to be grateful for all possessions within their great state.
Arizona’s second state song is “Arizona.” This song has come to be known as “I Love You Arizona,” because these words are repeated over and over throughout the song. “Arizona,” similar to “The Arizona March Song,” is also about the beauty of the state. Composer Rex Allen Jr. cites two Arizona mountain ranges, the Dos Cabezas and Superstition Mountains, as well as heartwarming sunrises and sunsets. He even recognizes notorious outlaws to have roamed the state during its early history and ends up with enduring images of Arizona’s famous flowering cacti.
“The Arizona March Song” is a typical marching song and a traditional choice as Arizona’s state song, appropriate for public events such as the opening of rodeos and fairs. “Arizona” is a slow, soft ballad that’s more sentimental than motivating. The differences between these two songs, as well as the beauty of the song “Arizona,” explains the decision by Arizona lawmakers to adopt a second state song. In fact, many US states have more than one state song.
State songs are traditionally played at important state events such as inaugurations, state fairs, or sporting events. Most state songs boast of the natural physical beauty within the state or the strength and courage of the state’s founders. Regardless of content, a state song is meant to increase pride in the residents of the state and even bind the residents to the state.
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