City presents proclamation to Makky Kaylor for 'Tennessee, In My Dreams' as new state song

The celebration of Makky Kaylor's song, "Tennessee, In My Dreams" as an official state song made its way home to Columbia with a special proclamation presented by Columbia City Council.

Kaylor's song is one of only 14 official state songs, joining the ranks of other Volunteer State staples like "Rocky Top" and "The Tennessee Waltz."

More: Makky Kaylor's 'Tennessee, In My Dreams' named official state song, one of only 14

Mayor Chaz Molder and council members joined to present a special "Makky Kaylor Day" during its July 11 regular meeting earlier this month, paying one of many recognitions Kaylor has received for his song, and its significance to Tennessee.

"I'm really excited to have not just a friend of Columbia, but is a personal friend of mine as well, Makky Kaylor, be here," Molder said. "Whenever someone from our area does something that is such a good representation for all things Columbia and Maury County, we want to recognize them as well."

A Memphis native, Kaylor's career spans almost five decades. Many of those years were spent on Music Row in Nashville, working alongside award-winning songwriters, musicians and other famous names. Though once he moved his family to Columbia, he had found home.

In April of 2023, Kaylor received a proclamation and resolution by the Tennessee General Assembly for his "contributions to the music industry as a 'Tennessee Troubadour.'"

More: Columbia's Makky Kaylor receives state proclamation as 'Tennessee Troubadour' for music

Kaylor's proclamation from the city comes after many health incidents, including two strokes and a recent open-heart surgery, which could have left him unable to sing and perform again.

"A few months ago, I was on a LifeFlight from Maury Regional to Vanderbilt Hospital, and I'm just thankful for every breath, every heartbeat genuinely," Kaylor said. "Anything else that's happened, including a Tennessee State Song, is just gravy, and this Tennessee songwriter loves gravy."

More: 'Stay with me': Makky Kaylor returns to music, radio and family after open heart surgery

But after many rehabs, surgeries and time spent recovering, Kaylor made his way back to the stage in time to celebrate his 60th birthday at Puckett's in downtown Columbia.

"You all know how much I love our town, and so this is truly an honor just to be a citizen here," Kaylor said. "Any way, even in some small way, that I can help shine light on this wonderful town, I'm happy to do that. This is a blessing."

Jay Powell is a general reporter for The Daily Herald. Get up-to-date news in your inbox by subscribing to The Daily Herald newsletter at www.ColumbiaDailyHerald.com.

This article originally appeared on The Daily Herald: City presents proclamation to Makky Kaylor for 'Tennessee, In My Dreams' as new state song