The recession is still upon us. Many cut expensive vacations from their budgets this year and, as a result, never quite scratched the travel itch—an itch no cortisone cream can ever fully cure.
Forget the Outer Banks (too dune-y), the Hamptons (passé) and Bermuda (ravaged by hurricane Igor) and take advantage of the time to reflect on what makes Richmond lovable, the qualities that have inspired myriad songs about the city.
These 10 tunes run the gamut of genres and artists, including everyone from nationally recognized performers to unsigned locals. The common denominator is that, together, they take us on a trip to the place we know best.
Background
Any experienced traveler knows that pre-trip research pays off. Finding out a little bit about the history of the place you’re headed makes for a more edifying journey and often puts you a step ahead of the locals.
First, peer into Richmond’s past with Old Crow Medicine Show’s "James River Blues," the bluegrass-oriented group’s melancholy tale of James River boatmen being run out of business by the railroad.
The classic rock hit "The Night They Drove Ol’ Dixie Down" by The Band continues the saga with a touch of Civil War history, chronicling Richmond’s fall to Union forces through the eyes of a young Southerner.
Travel
History is important, but hitting the highway is fun. Those traveling from northern regions can switch on hometown punk group Avail’s "South Bound 95" and identify with the singer’s effort to "make it home to Richmond, VA" from "nowhere, USA."
For travelers motoring in the opposite direction, contemporary country singer Travis Tritt’s "Modern Day Bonnie and Clyde" provides the soundtrack. The lyrics recount heading north on 95 to Richmond "with a redhead riding shotgun and a pistol by my side"—admittedly a pleasant way to travel, but not for the faint of heart.
The Destination
Once in Richmond, it’s time to get to know the city. Start with "The Hill" (Oregon Hill, that is) by the local Oregon Hill Funk All Stars and accept their polite invitation, "Please partake in a PBR to appease your parched throat."
Next, head over to Southside with the track "Unseen World" (expect explicit lyrics) by Mad Skillz and Lonnie B., "the rhyme buster, mic clutcher from Richmond"—he’ll "show you the real definition of the word ‘represent.’"
As for the remaining sides and ends of the city, they all get equitably shouted out in the Ellis Boyz’ "Richtown," (also contains explicit lyrics) a heartfelt ode by the native Richmond rappers to their home city. The Ellis Boyz, like so many proud residents, "put it down for that [expletive] Richtown."
Events
When visiting any city, it’s a good idea to sample the cultural offerings. Get in the mood for the fast-approaching Richmond Folk Festival with some Richmond-oriented folk and bluegrass tunes.
"Going to Richmond" by Ricky Skaggs and Kentucky Thunder and "Richmond Ruckus," performed by Reno and Smiley, are two roiling instrumental tunes, perfect for a little folk festival pre-gaming. (Both are available for free listening by searching Grooveshark.com)
Take the tempo down and finish off with "Richmond Blues," played by past Richmond Folk Festival performers Cephas and Wiggins, as they remind us that who you’re with is more important than where you travel: "Life ain’t worth living if you ain’t with the one you love."
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