1. Wagon Wheel
Want that authentic country experience with a feel-good tune? This is the song for you! The entire song is very upbeat and encourages you to get up, dance and sing along with Darius Rucker. This song makes you want to hop in a truck with the windows rolled down and cruise down a dirt road. It’s also the big song the crowd will be singing along to at the concert; cue “Rock me mama like a wagon wheel / rock me mama anyway you feel”. I believe this is a great song that everyone will love, whether they’re new to country music or just need that southern nostalgic feeling. Overall, the positive lyrics, various instruments and catchy chorus make this a great first pick.
2. Alright
Have you taken the time to think about what you’re truly grateful for? Well, Darius Rucker has. As he sings “Alright”, he lists all the most important things in life that he is grateful for--- a roof over his head, a loving wife and food on the table. The song makes you sway when you’re listening to it and have a greater appreciation for life. Rucker points out we don’t need fancy hotels or meals to have everything that we want and need. So, if you need a burst of positivity, to switch up your perspective or dwell in your gratitude, this is the song to listen to.
3. Come Back Song
Compared to the past two songs, the theme of this track is more somber. Rucker sings to his past love and describes the heartbreak and longing he’s experiencing. This can be a good song when you need to express your emotions, but is still a good recommendation for the upcoming concert. Rucker shares the perspective of a struggle everyone faces and can come together to sing about. And although the lyrics are sadder, there is still a catchy chorus we’ll all be singing out loud.
4. Don't Think I Don't Think About It
Similar to the last song, this one’s theme is about heartbreak, regret, and longing. Once again, this song reflects how almost everyone feels after ending a relationship. Rucker has powerful verses such as “I wonder if I sometimes cross your mind”, “Where would we be today if I never drove that car away?” and “Could’ve been, should’ve been all worked out”. These are powerful and solemn verses, but what is music if we’re not emotionally connected to it? Give it a listen, sway along and get ready to sing it at the concert!
5. It Won't Be Like This For Long
Definitely worth the listen! And worth reading the lyrics too! This song is slow and soft with beautiful lyrics. I’d say this song is a great listen for fathers and daughters, but everyone should listen. Rucker tells the story of a dad and his daughter as he watches her go through the phases of life. He tells the story of her first day at preschool, to her as a teenager and finally, as he walks her down the aisle. The song is nostalgic, comforting and a good reminder for all listeners to stay in the moment because “it won’t be like this for long".
6. Hold My Hand
When we’re listening to Darius Rucker songs, we can’t forget his time in Hootie and the Blowfish. This song is upbeat and something everyone can dance and sway too. It is endearing and promotes the importance of loving and standing by one another.
7. Let Her Cry
Another rock song by Hootie and the Blowfish! The lyrics of this song are more on the solemn side as Rucker sings about heartbreak and letting go of the one he loves. He once again shares the human experiences of sadness and pain, but reminds the audience that after crying, the sun will come up again, bringing hope along with it.
8. Only Wanna Be With You
This one makes you want to get on your feet and dance! This Hootie and the Blowfish song is a mix of rock, country and pop, appealing to fans of a variety of genres. Rucker sings about a woman he has a crush on and all the unique things he loves about her. All he wants is to be with her!
9. Southern State of Mind
Back to his solo tracks, Rucker sings about his love for his home in the south. This song is for country fans and if you’re also from the south, it will leave you feeling nostalgia for your southern roots.
10. Beers and Sunshine
This is one of Rucker’s newer songs. Rucker uses vivid imagery, describing memories of spending time by the water with his friends. With its combination of fun lyrics, an upbeat rhythm and a positive vibe, you too will want to take a trip down by the water with your friends.