Florida Governor Declares Apopka Song as New State Anthem

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis issued an executive order on Tuesday, officially designating a 1992 song as the state’s new anthem. The decree identifies 'Seminole Wind' as the selected track, a composition written by John Anderson, a native of Apopka.

The governor announced the decision through his social media account on X. In a statement, DeSantis confirmed the designation and outlined additional measures to honor the songwriter’s legacy within the state.

Anderson’s background is closely tied to the Apopka area. According to the executive order, he grew up in Florida and graduated from Apopka High School in 1972. He later relocated to Nashville, Tennessee, where he established a career in the music industry.

During his time in Nashville, Anderson became known for producing several hit country songs. The executive order specifically lists 'Swingin,' 'Wild and Blue,' and 'Black Sheep' as notable works from his catalog.

The announcement comes shortly after Anderson’s death last week. He passed away just days after attending the recent Country Music Hall of Fame induction ceremony in Nashville.

In addition to naming the state anthem, DeSantis directed the Florida Secretary of State to install historic markers in the City of Apopka. These markers are intended to depict John Anderson’s contribution to Florida’s cultural heritage.

The governor also tasked the Florida Department of Environmental Protection to collaborate with the St. Johns River Water Management District. The goal is to designate the wildlife drive and trail system located at Lake Apopka North Shore as the John Anderson Wildlife Drive and Trail System.

This executive order adds a new layer to Florida’s musical history, as the state already has another official anthem. Lawmakers approved 'Florida, Where Sawgrass Meets the Sky' in 2008. That song was written by Jan Hinton, a music teacher from Pompano Beach.

The new designation highlights the personal connection between the state leadership and the community of Apopka. By renaming local infrastructure and erecting historical markers, the administration aims to permanently link the late songwriter’s life story with the region’s identity.

The full text of the executive order details the administrative steps required to implement these changes. It serves as the legal basis for the new state anthem and the associated commemorative projects in Apopka.