In a light‑hearted nod to the long‑standing Alabama‑Tennessee rivalry, beloved Alabama country singer Riley Green has joined forces with former Tennessee quarterback Peyton Manning to record a new single titled “Alabama vs. Tennessee.” The song, released this week, is intended to be the soundtrack for Tennessee Week celebrations across the South, and it quickly found its way onto local radio stations and streaming playlists in Tuscaloosa.
Local fans embrace the collaboration
Many Tuscaloosa residents, who grew up hearing both Green’s chart‑topping hits and Manning’s legendary football stories, welcomed the collaboration as a fun reminder that rivalry can be friendly. “It’s great to see two icons from our neighboring states come together and remind us that we can still enjoy a beer together,” said longtime Tuscaloosa resident and Alabama fan Sarah Whitaker. “Even though we’re on opposite sides, the song feels like a celebration of our shared Southern culture.”
About the artists
Riley Green, a native of Alabama, has become one of the state’s most popular country artists, known for hits such as “There’s a Girl” and “I Wish Grandpas Never Died.” In addition to his music career, Green serves as a guest judge on NBC’s hit show The Voice, where his down‑to‑earth personality has earned him a national following.
Peyton Manning, a Hall of Fame quarterback who spent the bulk of his career with the Indianapolis Colts and the Denver Broncos, hails from the state of Tennessee. Since retiring from the NFL, Manning has become a beloved media personality, co‑hosting the popular “ManningCast” on Monday Night Football with his brother Eli. His humor and generosity have made him a favorite guest on talk shows and charity events.
The song’s message
“Alabama vs. Tennessee” blends Green’s signature country sound with playful lyrical references to the rivalry. The chorus emphasizes that, despite cheering for different teams, fans can still find common ground: “The world could learn a thing or two from a couple good old boys like me and you.” The track also includes a line about Manning’s pride in supporting Knoxville, while Green urges listeners to “let the tide take the field.”
Both artists stress that the song is meant to foster goodwill rather than deepen division. “We wanted to create something that fans could enjoy together, whether they’re wearing crimson or orange,” Green said in a recent interview. Manning added, “It’s all about good sportsmanship and having a laugh with friends over a cold beer.”
How to listen
The single is now available on all major streaming platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music. Local radio stations such as WZNN 92.3 FM and WJQX 99.9 FM have added the track to their rotation, and the song’s music video, featuring footage of both artists on a Nashville soundstage, can be viewed on YouTube.
Community impact
Beyond the music, the collaboration has sparked a series of community events in Tuscaloosa. Local bars and restaurants are planning “Alabama vs. Tennessee” themed nights, offering special drinks and menu items to fans of both teams. The Tuscaloosa Chamber of Commerce hopes the song will boost tourism during the upcoming Tennessee Week festivities, drawing visitors from neighboring states who want to experience the friendly rivalry firsthand.
In a region where football and country music are cultural cornerstones, the partnership between Riley Green and Peyton Manning serves as a reminder that shared traditions can bring people together, even when they cheer for different sides.
Original reporting: The Tuscaloosa Thread — read the source article.
