The Devil Went Down to Georgia by The Charlie Daniels Band

About the Song

The Charlie Daniels Band’s legendary anthem, “The Devil Went Down to Georgia,” is more than just a song; it’s a cultural phenomenon. Released in 1979, it became an instant classic, blending elements of country, rock, and bluegrass into a high-octane musical showdown.
The song tells a captivating tale of a young fiddle player, Johnny, who challenges the devil himself to a musical duel. With its vivid storytelling, fiery instrumentation, and a pinch of supernatural drama, “The Devil Went Down to Georgia” captured the imagination of audiences worldwide.

Charlie Daniels’ masterful songwriting and the band’s energetic performance brought the story to life. The song’s iconic fiddle solo, a showcase of Daniels’ incredible talent, has become synonymous with the track. It’s a musical battle that pits good against evil, skill against supernatural power, and ultimately, human spirit against the darkness.
Beyond its entertainment value, “The Devil Went Down to Georgia” is a celebration of American roots music. The song’s blend of traditional and contemporary elements has made it a beloved classic that transcends generations. It’s a testament to the enduring power of storytelling and the universal appeal of music.

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Lyrics: The Devil Went Down to Georgia

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.

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