This is it, y’all. We’re in the final round of voting for the greatest song ever written about Alabama. Before the championship showdown, let’s take a look back on round 2.

Round 2 Recap:

“My Home’s in Alabama” by Alabama vs. “Stars Fell on Alabama” by Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong.

Winner: “My Home’s in Alabama” with 71.5% of the vote.

I was afraid this would happen. In a perfect world, Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong would never lose anything, but as you all just proved, this world is far from perfect. Don’t get me wrong: I understand and appreciate all of the love for “My Home’s in Alabama.”  However, you’ll never hear me say it’s a better song than “Stars Fell on Alabama.” The way Ella and Louis’ voices play off each other is intoxicating. That trumpet at the beginning? Flawless. The gentle love story woven throughout the song? Beautiful. If I had it my way, “Stars Fell on Alabama” would decisively win this whole contest. But I don’t get to have my way. This is America; we don’t believe in dictatorships.

So, congratulations. “My Home’s in Alabama” is in the finals.

“Sweet Home Alabama” by Lynyrd Skynyrd vs. “Alabama Pines” by Jason Isbell

Winner: “Sweet Home Alabama” with 91% of the vote.

Jason Isbell didn’t stand a chance. “Sweet Home Alabama” is as much a part of the Yellowhammer State as the Crimson Tide. It’s an institution. A juggernaut. We’ll explore Lynyrd Skynyrd’s Alabama anthem more next week, but for now I want to show Mr. Isbell some decency and acknowledge the fact that “Alabama Pines” is probably the best song written about Alabama in this century. Like I said last week, it takes a true Alabamian to write a convincing love song to this state, and Isbell succeeds beautifully. As autumn settles in, take some time to get in your car, roll down the windows and listen to “Alabama Pines” while cruising on a cool evening.

Jason Isbell put forth a noble effort, but “Sweet Home Alabama” rightfully advances.

Now, let’s move on to the championship round. It’s winner takes all. Next week we’ll announce the greatest song ever written about Alabama.

Now cast your vote for the finals:

“My Home’s in Alabama” vs. “Sweet Home Alabama”

“My Home’s in Alabama” by Alabama

“Sweet Home Alabama” by Lynyrd Skynyrd