About the Song
Johnny Horton’s “North to Alaska” is a classic example of the American spirit of adventure and the allure of the unknown. Released in 1960, the song became a massive hit, capturing the imagination of a nation dreaming of escape and opportunity.
The song paints a vivid picture of the Klondike Gold Rush, filled with promises of riches and the thrill of the frontier. Horton’s energetic delivery perfectly captures the excitement and optimism of the prospectors heading north. The catchy melody and infectious rhythm make it an undeniably upbeat and infectious tune.
Beyond its adventurous spirit, “North to Alaska” also touches on themes of camaraderie and the human desire for connection. The song evokes images of rugged individuals banding together in pursuit of a common dream.
Horton’s performance, combined with the song’s infectious energy, has made “North to Alaska” a timeless classic. It’s a song that continues to inspire and entertain, serving as a reminder of the American spirit of exploration and perseverance.
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Lyrics: North To Alaska
Way up north to Alaska, way up north to Alaska
North to Alaska, go north, the rush is on
North to Alaska, go north, the rush is onBig Sam left Seattle in the year of ’92
With George Pratt his partner and brother Billy too
They crossed the Yukon River and found a bonanza gold
Below that old white mountain, just a little southeast of Nome
Sam crossed the majestic mountains to the valleys far below
He talked to his team of huskies as he mushed on through the snow
With the Northern Lights a runnin’ wild in the Land of the Midnight Sun
Yes, Sam McCord was a mighty man in the year of nineteen-oneWhere the river is winding, big nuggets they’re finding
North to Alaska, go north, the rush is on
Way up north to Alaska, way up north to Alaska
North to Alaska, go north, the rush is on
North to Alaska, go north, the rush is onGeorge turned to Sam with his gold in his hand
Said, “Sam you’re a lookin’ at a lonely, lonely man
I’d trade all the gold that’s buried in this land
For one small band of golden place on sweet little Jenny’s hand
‘Cause a man needs a woman to love him all the time
Remember Sam a true love is so hard to find
I’d build for my Jenny a honeymoon home
Below that old white mountain just a little southeast of Nome”Where the river is windin’, big nuggets they’re findin’
North to Alaska, we’ve gone north, the rush is on
North to Alaska, we’ve gone north, the rush is on
Way up north to Alaska, way up north to Alaska
North to Alaska, go north, the rush is on
North to Alaska, go north, the rush is on