Percy Priest Lake: A Muse for Country Music’s Waterside Tales

Nestled just east of Nashville, Percy Priest Lake is more than just a popular recreational spot; its shimmering waters, scenic shores, and laid-back atmosphere have also served as a muse and backdrop for a number of country music songs and videos. From celebratory lakeside parties to more introspective reflections, this Middle Tennessee reservoir has woven itself into the fabric of country music storytelling.

One of the most notable country music videos filmed on Percy Priest Lake is Little Big Town’s “Pontoon.” This Grammy Award-winning song, released in 2012, became the group’s first number one hit. The video perfectly captures the song’s carefree, summertime vibe, featuring the band and friends enjoying a lively party on a pontoon boat, soaking up the sun, and cruising across the lake’s expanse. The visuals of Percy Priest Lake truly bring the “lazy lake song” to life.

Another iconic video shot at Percy Priest Lake is Craig Morgan’s “Redneck Yacht Club” from 2005. The video showcases Morgan and his buddies having a blast on the lake, with scenes of boat-riding, floating, and generally embodying the “redneck yacht club” lifestyle. The video even features cameo appearances by fellow country stars like Blake Shelton and Aaron Tippin, solidifying its place as a quintessential lakeside country anthem.
Beyond being a filming location, Percy Priest Lake has also inspired songwriters to directly reference it in their lyrics. Jason Isbell’s acclaimed song “Cover Me Up,” later famously covered by Morgan Wallen, includes a direct mention of the lake. While the song’s themes are deeply personal and emotional, the imagery of Percy Priest Lake roots it firmly in a recognizable, real-world setting for many listeners.
More recently, the lake continues to inspire new music. Julie Williams’ “Tennessee Moon” (released in 2021) was directly inspired by a film photo she took of an ex while kayaking on Percy Priest Lake at sunset. This personal connection highlights how the lake serves as a vivid memory and emotional touchstone for artists. Similarly, Mackenzie Carpenter’s upcoming song “Gone Fishing,” co-written with Mia Mantia and SJ McDonald, cleverly takes a darker, revenge-driven turn by sending a cheating husband to the depths of Percy Priest Lake, showcasing the lake’s versatility as a narrative element.

Even artists like Michaela Anne have spoken about finding solace and inspiration in the nature surrounding Percy Priest Lake. While not directly writing a song about the lake, her walks in the woods by Percy Priest Lake are a place of calm that helps her focus on her music.

From party anthems to heartfelt ballads, Percy Priest Lake has undeniably played a role in shaping some memorable moments in country music. Its proximity to Nashville, coupled with its natural beauty and recreational appeal, ensures that this Middle Tennessee gem will likely continue to be a source of inspiration for country artists for years to come.