A life of writing music about his home state of Mississippi culminated for Steve Azar on Thursday when Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves signed the legislation making one of his original songs the state’s official song.
“What an amazing adventure this has been, and when his name hit the paper it certainly was a moment I won’t soon forget,” Azar said. “I’ve loved writing songs about our home since a very young age celebrating the place that gave me the pin.”
Family members joined Azar at the capitol to witness the signing ceremony.
“I was obviously moved beyond description having my bride Gwen and one of our three children Adrian, other family and friends and supporters in legislature for my ‘One Mississippi’ becoming a new state song all joined at the capital with Governor Reeves as he signed the bill into law,” Azar said.
While the signing ceremony was the highlight of the day, Azar was also surprised to find dozens of friends and family members waiting to celebrate with him Thursday night.
The party, included a video of recorded congratulations from regular participants in Azar’s Delta Soul event.
“I have to tell you I had no idea our friends were scheming up a celebration party, folks coming from all over, or sending video messages of congratulations, along with one of my favorite people and chef’s David Crews preparing a wonderful meal. It was all so unexpected and like I said had no clue this was in the works,” Azar said. “Once again grateful and humbled says it all. I have been so blessed to get to do what I love in life and make it my career.
“Time now to take One Mississippi to the children and all Mississippians. I am so proud that my song is now our song.”
