South Carolina adds ‘Carolina When I Die’ as official state song

(WCIV) — Gov. Henry McMaster announced Wednesday that “Carolina When I Die” has been designated an official South Carolina state song, honoring a tune he said has become part of the state’s story and identity.

South Carolina adds ‘Carolina When I Die’ as official state song (Photo: Governor Henry McMaster’s ‘X’ page)

The song by South Carolina native Patrick Davis, featuring fellow South Carolina artists Darius Rucker and Edwin McCain, has become a well-known tribute to the Palmetto State.

McMaster marked the occasion with the artists, celebrating the song’s new status among South Carolina’s official state symbols.

“‘Carolina When I Die’ has earned its place among the songs that tell the story of our state,” McMaster said in a statement. “It was an honor to host Patrick Davis, Darius Rucker, and Edwin McCain as we celebrated its designation as an official South Carolina state song.”

“Carolina When I Die” has earned its place among the songs that tell the story of our state. It was an honor to host Patrick Davis, Darius Rucker, and Edwin McCain as we celebrated its designation as an official South Carolina state song. pic.twitter.com/E0QPoaQOHU

— Gov. Henry McMaster (@henrymcmaster) September 30, 2026

“Carolina When I Die” joins “Carolina,” adopted as South Carolina’s first official state song in 1911, and “South Carolina on My Mind,” which was designated an official state song in 1984. It is the third official state song recognized by South Carolina.