In 2003, Randy Owen – lead singer of Alabama – joined Kenny Chesney for an updated rendition of “Christmas In Dixie.”
Arguably one of the most enjoyable songs at Christmas time, Alabama‘s hit “Christmas In Dixie” has been a staple in every country fan’s house during the holiday season.
The song was originally released in 1982.
“Christmas in Dixie” was first included on RCA Nashville’s compilation album A Country Christmas. Other songs on the album include “Let It Snow” by Charley Pride, “Noel, Noel” by Steve Wariner, and “Pretty Paper” by Willie Nelson.
It was later included on the legendary band’s 1985 album, Alabama Christmas.
Who's listening to their ALABAMA CHRISTMAS Album????
It's not too late! We have a week till Christmas!https://t.co/q3CSUD4fFp pic.twitter.com/47raHbz8Hx— ALABAMA (@TheAlabamaBand) December 16, 2016
In 2017, Alabama re-recorded the song for their third Christmas album, titled American Christmas, which honored the 35th year of the song’s release.
The song is a celebration of Christmas in the South, with each verse referencing non-Southern areas, as well as cities considered to be The South. In the final verse, Alabama references Fort Payne, Alabama, which is their hometown.
Many other artists of all genres have covered the tune for their Christmas albums, including 2017’s CMA Pinnacle Award recipient, Kenny Chesney.
Kenny Chesney and Alabama’s Randy Owen join forces.
Chesney included the song, which featured Alabama’s lead singer Randy Owen, on his 2003 album All I Want For Christmas Is A Real Good Tan.
Chesney and Owen’s voices sound incredible together and their harmonies seem so effortless! During the last verse, Owen sang the Fort Payne, Alabama lyric and Chesney added a lyric about his hometown, Knoxville, Tennessee.
Take a listen to Chesney’s version below; you’ll be glad you did.