Published February 1, 2007 in issue 0605 of the HooK.

I'm really disappointed by the finalists for State Song [January 18: "Two new tunes revive state song debate"]. Both songs sound contrived and caused bile to rise in my throat.

Why does the State feel the need to write a new song? My vote is for "East Virginia Blues" a classic bluegrass tune popularized by The Stanley Brothers.

The way I see it, the State has two options: 1) traditional Virginia mountain bluegrass or 2) "Virginia" by Clipse (check it out on iTunes. I think it captures the essence of the State).

L. John Bourgeois IV
Charlottesville