15 Songs about Dallas, the “Big D”

Dallas also known as the “Big D” has a rich history and culture that has inspired countless musicians over the years. From country legends to rock icons, Dallas has played a significant role in the development of American music, and many artists have paid tribute to this iconic city through their music.

In this article, we’ll explore the top 15 songs about Dallas and why they’re worth listening to.

This list covers a range of musical styles and eras, from classic country hits like “Deep in the Heart of Texas” by Gene Autry, to modern pop songs like “Dallas” by the The Flatlanders. We’ll also delve into the stories behind each song and what makes them special to those who know and love Dallas. Whether you’re a longtime resident of the city, a fan of Texas music, or simply curious about what makes the “Big D” so special, this article will offer a fascinating glimpse into the unique history and culture of one of America’s most beloved cities.

1. Dallas – Alan Jackson

“Dallas” is a country song performed by Alan Jackson, written by Jackson himself along with Keith Stegall. Released in 1991, the song features traditional country sounds with a steel guitar, fiddle, and Jackson’s distinctive baritone voice. The lyrics tell the story of a man leaving his hometown of Dallas to pursue his dreams in Hollywood, only to realize that the glitz and glamour are not what he expected. The song speaks to the universal experience of feeling homesick and nostalgic for the simpler times of one’s youth, as well as the pitfalls of chasing after fame and fortune. With its catchy melody and relatable lyrics, “Dallas” became a hit for Jackson and remains a beloved classic in the country music canon.

2. Dallas After Midnight – Ray Wylie Hubbard

“Dallas After Midnight” is a gritty and soulful country blues track by Ray Wylie Hubbard. The song sets a moody atmosphere with its slow and deliberate pace, featuring a raw guitar riff and Hubbard’s distinctively raspy vocals. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the late-night scene in Dallas, Texas, with references to the city’s iconic landmarks and characters. Hubbard’s storytelling ability shines through as he weaves together tales of love, danger, and the allure of the city after dark. With its haunting melody and evocative lyrics, “Dallas After Midnight” is a powerful and unforgettable addition to Hubbard’s extensive repertoire.

3. Dallas – Steely Dan

“Dallas” is a jazz rock song by the American rock band Steely Dan, featured on their acclaimed 1972 debut album, “Can’t Buy a Thrill.” The song features a catchy, up-tempo beat, highlighted by intricate guitar work and the band’s signature use of complex jazz-influenced chord progressions. The lyrics describe the story of a man who is lured to Dallas by the promise of riches, only to find himself disillusioned and struggling to make ends meet. The song’s narrative is brought to life through vivid imagery and the band’s distinctively smooth vocal harmonies. Overall, “Dallas” showcases Steely Dan’s unique fusion of rock, jazz, and pop sensibilities, and remains a fan favorite decades after its release.

4. Northeast Texas Women – Willis Alan Ramsey

“Northeast Texas Women” is a rootsy, country-folk tune by singer-songwriter Willis Alan Ramsey. Released on his eponymous debut album in 1972, the song showcases Ramsey’s heartfelt vocals and masterful acoustic guitar playing. The lyrics paint a portrait of the strong and resilient women of Northeast Texas, with references to the rugged landscape and the struggles of daily life. Ramsey’s storytelling ability shines through as he weaves together tales of love, heartache, and the resilience of the human spirit. With its warm, inviting melody and poignant lyrics, “Northeast Texas Women” is a timeless classic in the realm of Americana music.

5. Dallas – Willie Nelson

“Dallas” is a classic country song written and performed by Willie Nelson. Released in 1972, the song tells the story of a man who is leaving his home in Dallas, Texas and heading to California to chase his dreams. The lyrics are filled with vivid imagery of the dusty roads and lonely highways he travels, as well as the people he meets along the way. The song’s slow tempo and melancholy tone perfectly capture the bittersweet feelings of leaving behind what’s familiar in search of something new. With its timeless melody and relatable lyrics, “Dallas” has become a beloved classic in the country music canon and a standout in Nelson’s extensive discography.

6. Dallas – Parker McCollum

“Dallas” is a contemporary country song performed by Parker McCollum, released in 2019. Although it shares the same title as Willie Nelson’s classic, McCollum’s “Dallas” is a different take on the theme of leaving home and chasing dreams. The song is a reflection on the singer’s own experiences of leaving his small town in Texas to pursue a career in music. McCollum’s gritty vocals and catchy guitar riffs give the song a modern edge, while the lyrics paint a vivid picture of the struggles and sacrifices that come with chasing one’s dreams. “Dallas” showcases McCollum’s skill as both a songwriter and a performer, and has become a fan favorite in his growing discography.

7. Goodnight Dallas – Carlene Carter

“Goodnight Dallas” is a heartfelt country ballad by Carlene Carter, released in 1993. The song reflects on Carter’s complicated relationship with the city of Dallas, Texas, where she spent much of her childhood and early career. The lyrics are filled with nostalgia and longing for the past, as Carter sings of the people and places that made Dallas feel like home. The song’s gentle melody and Carter’s emotive vocals create a sense of intimacy, as if the listener is hearing a personal confession. “Goodnight Dallas” is a poignant reflection on the power of memory and the bittersweet feelings that come with leaving a place you love behind.

8. Dallas – The Flatlanders

“Dallas” is a classic country song performed by The Flatlanders, released in 2002. The song features the signature vocal harmonies and acoustic instrumentation that define the band’s sound, as well as the lyrical wit and storytelling that are hallmarks of Texas songwriting. “Dallas” tells the story of a man who has lost everything and is making his way back to the city in search of a new beginning. The song’s vivid imagery and evocative melody create a sense of hopefulness despite the hardships the protagonist has faced. The Flatlanders’ version of “Dallas” is a testament to the enduring appeal of traditional countr

9. Dallas – Jimmy Buffett

“Dallas” is a country-tinged ballad by Jimmy Buffett, released in 1985. The song is a reflection on the ups and downs of life on the road, and the sense of longing that comes with being away from home. With its twangy guitar riffs and laid-back rhythm, “Dallas” captures the easygoing spirit of Buffett’s music, while the lyrics paint a picture of the endless highways and lonely nights that define a life spent touring. Despite its melancholy tone, the song ultimately carries a message of hope and resilience, as the protagonist vows to keep moving forward despite the challenges he faces. “Dallas” is a standout track in Buffett’s extensive catalog of hits, and a fan favorite among his legions of devoted followers.

10. Welcome to Dallas – Big Tuck

“Welcome to Dallas” is a rap song by Big Tuck, released in 2006. The song is a celebration of the rapper’s hometown, and a tribute to the city’s unique culture and history. With its booming bassline and catchy hook, “Welcome to Dallas” captures the energy and vitality of the city’s hip-hop scene, while the lyrics pay homage to the local landmarks and traditions that define Dallas’ identity. Big Tuck’s smooth flow and confident delivery make him a standout in the crowded field of southern rap, and “Welcome to Dallas” has become a signature track in his discography. The song is a testament to the enduring appeal of Dallas as a cultural hub and a source of inspiration for artists across genres.

11. Murder Most Foul – Bob Dylan

“Murder Most Foul” is a haunting ballad by Bob Dylan, released in 2020. Clocking in at over 17 minutes, the song is a meditation on the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, and its impact on American culture and history. Dylan’s distinctive vocals and sparse guitar work create a sense of intimacy and reflection, as if the listener is eavesdropping on a private conversation. The lyrics are rich with allusions to popular culture and political history, weaving together a tapestry of imagery and ideas that capture the complexity and mystery of the Kennedy assassination. “Murder Most Foul” is a masterful example of Dylan’s songwriting prowess, and a testament to his enduring legacy as a cultural icon.

12. If You’re Ever Down in Dallas – Lee Ann Womack

“If You’re Ever Down in Dallas” is a country song by Lee Ann Womack, released in 1998. The song tells the story of a woman who has been abandoned by her lover, and who implores him to return to her in Dallas, where she promises to make everything right. Womack’s soulful vocals and the song’s gentle melody create a sense of melancholy and longing, as the protagonist grapples with the pain of separation and the hope of reconciliation. “If You’re Ever Down in Dallas” is a standout track in Womack’s discography, showcasing her powerful voice and her ability to convey complex emotions through her music. The song is a testament to the enduring appeal of classic country ballads, and a tribute to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of heartbreak.

13. Dallas Days and Fort Worth Nights – Chris LeDoux

“Dallas Days and Fort Worth Nights” is a classic country song by Chris LeDoux that captures the essence of cowboy culture and the vibrant nightlife of two of Texas’ biggest cities. The song tells the story of a hard-working cowboy who spends his days working on the ranch in Dallas, but looks forward to the excitement and adventure that awaits him in Fort Worth at night. The lyrics are filled with vivid imagery that paints a picture of the cowboy lifestyle, with references to honky-tonks, rodeos, and the open range. LeDoux’s smooth, twangy voice perfectly captures the spirit of the song, and the upbeat melody and catchy chorus make it impossible not to tap your feet and sing along. “Dallas Days and Fort Worth Nights” is a timeless ode to the Wild West and a must-listen for any fan of classic country music.

14. This Ain’t Dallas – Hank Williams Jr.

“This Ain’t Dallas” is a classic country rock song by Hank Williams Jr. that showcases his signature blend of southern rock, blues, and honky-tonk. The song tells the story of a hard-living, hard-drinking cowboy who finds himself in a small town that’s not quite up to his standards. Despite the town’s shortcomings, he finds solace in the local bar, where he can drown his sorrows and forget his troubles. The lyrics are filled with vivid imagery and colorful characters, and Williams’ gritty vocals perfectly capture the rough-and-tumble spirit of the song. The driving beat and catchy chorus make it a perfect anthem for anyone who’s ever felt out of place in a small town. “This Ain’t Dallas” is a timeless classic that showcases Hank Williams Jr.’s unique style and unmatched talent.

15. Broke Down South of Dallas – Junior Brown

“Broke Down South of Dallas” is a classic country blues song by Junior Brown that tells the story of a man and his broken-down car, stranded on the side of the road south of Dallas. The song’s bluesy guitar riff sets the tone for the tale of woe that follows, with Brown’s smooth vocals perfectly capturing the frustration and desperation of the situation. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the Texas countryside, with references to dusty roads, tall grass, and rolling hills. Brown’s virtuosic guitar playing is on full display in this song, with lightning-fast runs and soulful bends that perfectly complement the gritty lyrics. “Broke Down South of Dallas” is a timeless classic that showcases Junior Brown’s unique blend of country, blues, and rockabilly.