The Masters Tournament, played at the storied Augusta National Golf Club every April in Augusta, Ga., is one of the most anticipated sporting events of the year.
But before the first round begins April 9 comes what has now become a tradition: the annual release of a new version of Hoagy Carmichael and Stuart Gorrell’s legendary ode to the Peach state, “Georgia on My Mind,” immortalized by Ray Charles in 1960.
Ever since 2020, ESPN, which broadcasts the tournament, has selected a singer to record the anthem, starting with India Arie, followed by Chloe X Halle, Charles Kelly, Leon Bridges, Kane Brown and, last year, Noah Kahan. This year, it’s country superstar Thomas Rhett’s turn, who has crafted a sweet, slow soulful version that comes out today (March 23).
“This is one of those things that I want to look back at when I’m like 70 and feel like I did it in a very classic way,” Thomas Rhett says in a behind-the scenes look at the singer recording the standard with his band and producer Julian Bunetta. “When you do a song like this, I think the first thought in your brain is ‘Don’t mess it up.’”
Thomas Rhett, who now lives in Nashville, is originally from Valdosta, Georgia. “When I hear that song, [I] just immediately envision Spanish moss hanging on trees. I envision Magnolia Lane, Amen Corner,” he says, noting two landmarks on the golf course. “It will just always make me think of the Masters, period.”
The CMA Awards winner, best known for such songs as “Die A Happy Man,” “What’s Your Country Song” and “Look What God Gave Her,” adds, “Timeless is what really what I’m shooting here for,” he says. “As long as this song has been in my brain, it has meant ‘Go Dawgs,’ and it’s April in Augusta.” He even has his favorite go-to meal at the golf tourney: “I’m just such a fan of the pimento cheese sandwich at the Masters,” he says, saluting the southern treat.
Recording the iconic tune for the event he cherishes so much is a milestone, Thomas Rhett says: “There’s a few things that are kinda pinnacles in my career and this would be at the top of that list.”
Up next for Thomas Rhett is months of touring, including opening for Morgan Wallen on his stadium tour and playing three dates with Luke Combs at London’s Wembley Stadium, as well as headlining his own arena outing, The Soundtrack to Life tour, that lasts through October. He and Niall Horan, who teamed up for a new version of Thomas Rhett’s “Old Tricks” last year, will co-headline Nashville’s Geodis Park on July 9 and Hersheypark Stadium in Hershey, Penn., on July 18.
