About the song
“Carolina in My Mind” is a song written and performed by American singer-songwriter James Taylor. It was originally released on his 1968 self-titled debut album.
Background:
- Homesickness: Taylor wrote the song while in London, recording his debut album for the Beatles’ Apple Records label. He was experiencing a strong sense of homesickness, missing his family, his dog, and his home state of North Carolina.
- Formentera and Ibiza: Taylor has recounted that he was inspired to write the song after a trip to the Spanish islands of Formentera and Ibiza.
- Karin: The song mentions a woman named Karin, who was a real person that Taylor met during his travels in Spain.
Themes:
- Longing for Home: The song’s central theme is the yearning for home and the comfort and familiarity it represents. The lyrics evoke vivid imagery of North Carolina’s landscapes and the sense of belonging Taylor feels there.
- Nostalgia: “Carolina in My Mind” is filled with nostalgic references to Taylor’s childhood and the simple joys of life in North Carolina.
- Escape: The song also touches on the idea of escaping one’s troubles and finding solace in memories of home.
- Universal Appeal: While the song is deeply personal to Taylor, its themes of homesickness, nostalgia, and longing for a simpler time resonate with many listeners.
Over the years, “Carolina in My Mind” has become one of James Taylor’s most beloved songs and a staple of his live performances. It has been covered by numerous artists and remains a timeless classic.
Video
Lyrics
In my mind I’m going to Carolina. Can’t you see the sunshine, can’t you just feel the moonshine?
Ain’t it just like a friend of mine to hit me from behind? Yes, I’m going to Carolina in my mind.
Karen she’s the silver sun, you best walk her way and watch it shine,
watch her watch the morning come.
A silver tear appearing now I’m crying, ain’t I? I’m going to Carolina in my mind.
There ain’t no doubt in no ones mind that loves the finest thing around,
whisper something soft and kind.
And hey, babe, the sky’s on fire, I’m dying, ain’t I? I’m going to Carolina in my mind.
In my mind I’m going to Carolina. Can’t you see the sunshine, can’t you just feel the moonshine?
Ain’t it just like a friend of mine to hit me from behind? Yes, I’m going to Carolina in my mind.
Dark and silent late last night, I think I might have heard the highway calling.
Geese in flight and dogs that bite.
And signs that might be omens say I’m going, going I’m gone to Carolina in my mind.
Now with a holy host of others standing round me, still I’m on the dark side of the moon.
And it seems like it goes on like this forever, you must forgive me
if I’m up and gone to Carolina in my mind.
In my mind I’m going to Carolina. Can’t you see the sunshine, can’t you just feel the moonshine?
Ain’t it just like a friend of mine to hit me from behind? Yes, I’m gone to Carolina in my mind.
Gotta make it back home again soon, gotta make it back on home again soon,
gotta make it back to Carolina soon, can’t hang around, no babe, gotta make it back home again,
gotta make it back to Carolina soon…