Why Georgia

"Why Georgia" is a song by American singer-songwriter John Mayer from his first album, Room for Squares (2001). As a B-side, the Australian CD single features the live version of "Why Georgia" as it appeared on Mayer's first live album, Any Given Thursday, as the single followed the live album's release. "Why Georgia" was released as the third single from Room for Squares in January 2003.

Lyrics

The song is autobiographic, and touches on Mayer's experience of having a "quarterlife crisis", a phenomenon of 20-somethings. He moved to Atlanta with Clay Cook after dropping out of Berklee College of Music, and, though pursuing his dreams, had doubts if he would be successful or not. In one interview he said

I remember getting into some pretty dismal places money-wise and opportunity-wise. I kind of looked at my guitar and said, 'It's just you and me. I'll go where you take me.'

Response

Rolling Stone magazine said that the song "lifts into a melodic chorus you won't soon forget". Stylus magazine praised "Why Georgia," saying of the single, "pure pop guitar lines resonate." PopMatters bemoaned that on songs like "Why Georgia", Mayer sounds just like Dave Matthews.

Track listings

All songs by John Mayer unless otherwise indicated.

US version

1. "Why Georgia" – 4:28
2. "3x5" (Live at the X Lounge) – 5:18
3. "No Such Thing" (demo version) (John Mayer, Clay Cook) – 3:51

International version

1. "Why Georgia" – 4:28
2. "3x5" (live at the X Lounge)(feat. Brad Paisley) – 5:18
3. "No Such Thing" (demo version) (Mayer, Cook) – 3:51
4. "Why Georgia" (Any Given Thursday version) – 6:51

Personnel

• John Mayer — vocals, guitar
• David LaBruyere — bass
• Nir Z — drums, loops
• Brandon Bush — Hammond organ
• John Alagia — percussion
• Clay Cook — backing vocals
• Doug Derryberry — backing vocals

Charts

Certifications

Release history

Cover versions

In 2004, saxophonist Gerald Albright covered the song from the album "Kickin' It Up".

External links

• on YouTube
• [permanent dead link]