In a move that blends cultural pride with musical history, a new bill in North Carolina has proposed designating Petey Pablo’s 2001 hit “Raise Up” as the state’s official hip-hop song. The proposal, which has sparked excitement among fans and lawmakers alike, aims to honor the legacy of the Greenville-born rapper and the impact of hip-hop on the state’s cultural landscape. VIBE Magazine first reported the development on March 28, 2025, highlighting the song’s deep ties to North Carolina’s identity.
Club Banger To State Anthem? Petey Pablo’s “Raise Up” Proposed As North Carolina’s Official Song https://t.co/VNtnHwOnAH
— VIBE Magazine (@VibeMagazine) March 28, 2025
“Raise Up,” produced by Timbaland, became an anthem for the South when it debuted, peaking at number 25 on the Billboard Hot 100. Known for its infectious beat and iconic lyrics like “This one’s for North Carolina! Come on and raise up,” the track has been a staple at local events, from Carolina Panthers games to music festivals like Lovin’ Life. Its signature call to “take your shirt off, twist it ‘round your hand, spin it like a helicopter” has become a unifying ritual for North Carolinians, symbolizing state pride and energy.
The bill, introduced in the North Carolina Senate, seeks to give “Raise Up” the same recognition as other state symbols, such as the dogwood flower and the cardinal bird. According to Axios Charlotte, the proposal also acknowledges the role of North Carolina’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities in shaping the state’s hip-hop scene, with artists like Petey Pablo leading the charge. Pablo, born Moses Barrett III, has long been a cultural ambassador for the state, putting Greenville on the map with his music.
While North Carolina already has an official state song, “The Old North State,” adopted in 1927, this new bill reflects a modern evolution, embracing the diversity of the state’s musical heritage. However, the proposal isn’t without competition—Charlotte rapper DaBaby has expressed interest in creating a new Carolinas anthem to rival Pablo’s classic.
As the bill moves through the legislative process, it has sparked conversations about the role of hip-hop in Southern culture. For many, “Raise Up” isn’t just a song—it’s a celebration of North Carolina’s spirit, resilience, and community. Whether it becomes the official state hip-hop song or not, Petey Pablo’s legacy continues to resonate, proving the enduring power of music to unite and inspire.
