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SB 1638

State Symbols - As enacted, designates "Tennessee" by Drew Holcomb as an official state song. - Amends TCA Title 4, Chapter 1, Part 3.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Sara Kyle

SB 1638 officially designates "Tennessee" by Drew Holcomb as a state song, adding ceremonial cultural representation to Tennessee law.

Signed by Governor.
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Bill Summary · SB 1638

Legislative bill overview

SB 1638 designates "Tennessee" by Drew Holcomb as an official state song, adding it to Tennessee's state symbols codified under state law. The bill amends Title 4, Chapter 1, Part 3 of the Tennessee Code Annotated to formally recognize this musical designation.

Why is this important

State symbols serve as official representations of a state's identity and culture. This designation, if enacted, would give formal legal recognition to a contemporary song as representative of Tennessee, though the practical impact is largely ceremonial and symbolic rather than substantive policy.

Potential points of contention

  • Contemporary vs. traditional symbolism: Some may question whether a relatively recent song (by modern standards) should hold the same official status as state symbols with deeper historical roots in Tennessee culture
  • Selection rationale: Questions may arise about the process for choosing this particular song and whether other Tennessee artists or songs received consideration
  • Redundancy concerns: Tennessee may already have an official state song, raising questions about whether multiple designations create confusion or diminish symbolic value

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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