Arkansas (You Run Deep in Me) facts for kids
"Arkansas (You Run Deep in Me)" is one of the official state songs of Arkansas. It was written by a talented songwriter named Wayland Holyfield in 1986. This song was created especially for Arkansas's 150th birthday celebration! The next year, in 1987, the state government officially named it a "state song."
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Arkansas's Official State Song
This special song, "Arkansas (You Run Deep in Me)," became an official symbol of the state. A state song is like a musical anthem that represents the history, culture, and spirit of a state. It's often played at important events and celebrations.
The Song's History
Wayland Holyfield wrote "Arkansas (You Run Deep in Me)" to celebrate a big milestone for the state: its 150th anniversary. This means 150 years since Arkansas became a state. The song quickly became popular and was officially recognized by the Arkansas General Assembly, which is like the state's law-making body.
Performed for a President
The song was so important that Wayland Holyfield even performed it at a very special event. He played it at the inauguration of President Bill Clinton in 1993. An inauguration is a ceremony where a new president officially takes office. Bill Clinton was a former governor of Arkansas before he became president.
Other State Songs of Arkansas
Did you know Arkansas has more than one official state song? States can have different songs for different purposes!
- "Arkansas": This song used to be the main state song for many years. It's now considered the state anthem.
- "Oh, Arkansas": Like "Arkansas (You Run Deep in Me)," this song was also written for the state's 150th birthday in 1986 and became an official state song in 1987.
- "The Arkansas Traveler": This is Arkansas's historical state song. It tells a story and reflects the state's past.
For many years, "Arkansas (You Run Deep in Me)" was played daily on the Arkansas Educational Television Network. It was part of their sign-on and sign-off procedures, which means it was heard when the TV station started broadcasting in the morning and when it finished for the night.
