Sometimes, a piece of music comes along that reminds us just how magnetic my state is to the rest of the world. It’s that “Delta Darling” charm, a pull so strong that even a boy from Odenton, Maryland, can’t help but succumb to it.
Enter Jackson Dean. I’ll admit; this is the first time I’ve come across his music, but I don’t think it’ll be the last.
Co-written with Luke Dick and Jessie Jo Dillon, the song uses repetition and alliteration to create a trance-like state, which I think is really cool! I am usually not one who sticks with slower songs, but this one, due to the storytelling and Jackson Dean’s incredible voice, kept me locked in.
Although I initially assumed Jackson Dean was a fellow southerner, he actually grew up in a small town in Maryland, often spending his time in the woods. This “outsider looking in” perspective allows him to romanticize the South in a way that feels fresh to those of us who live here.
The song is very simple in both lyrics and melody, but it sends a strong message – he’s crazy about the girl he’s singing about and he doesn’t want to let her go! It puts me in the mind of the simple melody of “Hey, Soul Sister” by Train. I always appreciate a song that says something without fully saying it. We need more songs like that nowadays. It also brings to mind the song “Southern Girl” by Maze, which is another piece about appreciating a lovely southern woman! I think it reminds me because Dean shared in an interview that R&B was an influence in him creating his album Magnolia Sage, which “Hey Mississippi” is included on. As a music blogger from Mississippi, songs like these always make me feel good! Songs make you want to sit out on the porch with a mason jar of sweet tea and just vibe in the breeze!
Another cool tidbit: Dean’s actual fiancée, Shannon Miscoll, is featured in the video! That brings the whole piece together beautifully! Check out the video below:
Final Thoughts
Jackson Dean has managed to capture something “vital and frisky” (his words!) in this new era. By leaning into the “Magnolia” side of his soul, he’s giving us a track that feels both modern and timeless. It’s a soulful ode that respects the weight of the Delta while bringing a fresh, Maryland-born perspective to the table.
“Hey Mississippi” is a hauntingly beautiful reminder that no matter where you’re from, the music of the South will always find a way to pull you in.
What’s your take on Jackson Dean’s new sound? Let’s talk about it in the comments below!
Want to discover more music that celebrates the heart of the South? Join us for our next New Notes listening party or browse our Mississippi Music category for more deep dives into the artists who define our culture.
