Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has issued an executive order designating John Anderson’s “Seminole Wind” as the official anthem of the Sunshine State.
DeSantis announced the news on social media this afternoon, sharing additional plans to honor the late country singer’s legacy in his hometown of Apopka, Florida.
“I have also directed the Department of State to erect historic markers in the City of Apopka depicting John Anderson’s contribution to Florida’s heritage,” he wrote. “In addition, I have tasked Department of Environmental Protection to work with the St. Johns River Water Management District to designate wildlife drive and trail system within Lake Apopka North Shore as the John Anderson Wildlife Drive and Trail System.”
The executive order highlights Anderson’s longstanding connection to Florida and recognizes how he used his music to celebrate the state’s history, heritage and natural landscapes.
“WHEREAS, on December 13, 1954, John Anderson was born in Orange County’s Apopka, a place his family called home for generations; and WHEREAS, Anderson grew up in natural Florida, between rows of orange trees and the Central Florida swamplands that existed prior to the arrival of theme parks in 1971 and the tourism boom that followed; and WHEREAS, in 1972, Anderson graduated from Apopka High School, where the musical talents he developed throughout adolescence led him to Nashville to get his start; and WHEREAS, Anderson’s songbook reflects an effort to incorporate Florida’s history, heritage, and landscapes into his writing, positively impacting the protection of natural Florida at a critical time in the state’s growth and development,” the order reads in part.
The move comes less than a week after Anderson’s unexpected passing at the age of 71. According to a statement, he died peacefully in his sleep on October 21.
Following his death, Anderson’s longtime friend and songwriting collaborator, John Rich, took to social media to urge DeSantis to designate “Seminole Wind” as Florida’s state song.
At the time, Rich wrote, “@RonDeSantis should consider making “Seminole Wind” the official state song of Florida. John Anderson captured the spirit of this state in his song, and was a native born Floridian. Gov DeSantis, would you consider making that happen? A bunch of us would fly down if you would.”
The designation is a fitting tribute to Anderson, a proud Florida native whose music often reflected the places and stories that shaped him. “Seminole Wind” references landmarks such as the Everglades and Lake Okeechobee, along with Osceola, the famed Seminole leader.
Anderson wrote “Seminole Wind,” which was released in August 1992 as the fourth single and title track from his 12th studio album. In addition to the song, he was known for hits including “Swingin’” and “Straight Tequila Night.” He was a member of both the Country Music Hall of Fame and the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame.
Anderson was laid to rest Sunday in a private service.