House recognizes Drew Hulcom as 'Tennessee' becomes an official state song

The House paused legislative business on April 6 to celebrate the adoption of "Tennessee," written and performed by Drew Hulcom and the Neighbors, as an official state song.

Representative Barrett announced that Governor Lee planned to sign the bill designating the song and introduced Drew Hulcom and his family on the chamber floor. Commissioner Mark Eiselle of the Department of Tourism joined the brief remarks to note the family’s work with state tourism efforts during the COVID recovery campaign and other promotions.

Drew Hulcom performed lines from the song on the floor, including the refrain, "I was born here and raised here, and I'll make my grave here. It's home." Members responded with praise and a group photograph at the well.

Lawmakers described the song as a cultural point of connection and cited the family's participation in state outreach. The event was ceremonial: the House recognized the song and the family, and the Governor’s signature was noted as the formal act putting the measure into law.

The recognition combined cultural celebration with brief floor remarks about partnerships between artists and state tourism programs.