Makky Kaylor's 'Tennessee, In My Dreams' named official state song, one of only 14
He's a singer, a writer, broadcaster and all-around musical troubadour, and now Makky Kaylor can add "state songwriter" to his long list of musical achievements.
On April 16, Gov. Bill Lee signed a bill designating Kaylor's song, "Tennessee, In My Dreams" as the newest official state song, joining other beloved state songs such as "The Tennessee Waltz" and "Rocky Top." It is also only the 14th state song in Tennessee’s history to receive the esteemed designation.
“I’m so very humbled and thankful for this blessing and recognition, especially, considering where I’ve been in my journey in life and music,” Kaylor said. “The song was written for anyone who has ever been homesick for ‘her,’ whether called away on business, for personal reasons or maybe in service to our country.
"It’s for anyone who misses ‘her’ and dreams of ‘her’ — of sweet Tennessee.”
'Simply a songwriter' with many names
A native of Memphis, Kaylor and his family have called Columbia home for the past 20 years. He’s often been called the "Swanky Southern Crooner," and lately the ‘Mayor of the Muletown Sound’ for his work in co-founding Southern Roots Radio.
"When people think about Southern music, it's not just country," Kaylor previously told The Daily Herald. "It's also jazz, soul and all kinds of things."
A state resolution in the 113th General Assembly also honored Kaylor as a "Tennessee Troubadour" in 2023 for his contributions to the music industry.
More: Columbia's Makky Kaylor receives state proclamation as 'Tennessee Troubadour' for music
Despite all of his accolades, Kaylor considers himself to be simply a songwriter, starting as a child in Memphis and leading to a lifelong career working professionally in the music industry as a songwriter, singer and entertainer for 45 years.
Kaylor's songs have been recorded by various artists and recently performed at the Grand Ole Opry, The Family Channel, RFD and more. He has performed his songs at major venues across the nation including the Ryman Auditorium, The Tennessee Theatre and more.
Leaders push for state song status
The idea of having a designated official state song began when Maury County Mayor Sheila Butt heard Kaylor perform "Tennessee, In My Dreams" at an event.
Butt later sent the song to Rep. Mark White, R-Memphis, who was already very familiar with native Memphian Kaylor’s work and the song.
Butt then invited Sen. Joey Hensley, R-Hohenwald, to hear the song at one of Kaylor’s shows. White and Hensley carried "Tennessee, In My Dreams" forward in legislation, which eventually garnered the governor’s signature.
“The first time I ever heard Makky Kaylor perform "Tennessee, in My Dreams" I knew it was a heartfelt song for a very special place,” Butt said. “Only a person who has experienced the good life that Tennessee has to offer could have written those words. Placing the song on the list of Tennessee State Songs is not only a well-deserved honor for Makky, but it is a sweet reminder for all of us who live here and for those who have ever longed for their beautiful home here in Tennessee and how wonderful our state really is.”
Surviving the odds with gratitude
Kaylor's story is not only one of a young Memphis kid with a dream of pursuing a life in music, but also one of determination, survival and resilience when life brings the unexpected.
To him, the honor brings a much deeper meaning of the state song designation, since it was only a few months ago Kaylor was in the midst of a serious health crisis, spending Thanksgiving battling a heart condition that became a matter of life or death.
More: 'Stay with me': Makky Kaylor returns to music, radio and family after open heart surgery
Kaylor was flown by LifeFlight to Vanderbilt Hospital where he underwent open-heart surgery for the second time in his life. Not to mention suffering two strokes in November of 2019.
He is happy to say he’s made a full recovery and recognizes the new lease on life he’s been given, which makes this designation even sweeter.
Since his recovery, Kaylor continues to celebrate life's accomplishments, not only returning to the stage to celebrate his 60th birthday, but also becoming a grandfather for the first time.
More: Makky Kaylor heads 'Back To The River' and Memphis roots with new release, Mulehouse show
Columbia Mayor Chaz Molder appreciates that Kaylor has been and remains an integral part of the community in Columbia, not just on the music scene, but in everyday life.
“I’ve known Makky Kaylor for a long time, and to know Makky is to know of his musical talent, his love of others, and his love of his country, state and community," Molder said.
"Now, thanks to "Tennessee, In My Dreams" being recognized as an official state song, the secret is out and all the world can now know and love Makky Kaylor, just like me. I am proud of Makky, I'm grateful to him for sharing his talents for all of us to enjoy, and, most of all, grateful for his friendship.”
Celebration on the stage
Kaylor continues to forge ahead with his Southern Roots Radio network, as well as upcoming plans to celebrate this latest honor properly — onstage with an audience.
On June 3, Kaylor will give a special performance of "Tennessee, In My Dreams" alongside the Grammy Award-winning Time Jumpers at 3rd and Lindsley in Nashville starting at 8 p.m.
The event will include a special presentation of the framed legislation by Rep. White. Presentations made by Butt and Molder are also being planned, with more details to be announced soon.
Tickets available at www.3rdandLindsley.com.
A brand-new version of Kaylor’s "Tennessee, In My Dreams" will also soon be available on all digital platforms.
Jay Powell is a general reporter for The Daily Herald. Get up-to-date news in your inbox by subscribing to The Daily Herald newsletter at www.ColumbiaDailyHerald.com.
This article originally appeared on The Daily Herald: Makky Kaylor's 'Tennessee, In My Dreams' named official state song
