I Wish I Was in Dixie (commonly known as "Dixie") is one of the most famous American folk songs and marches of the 19th century. The song celebrates the American South (Dixieland) with a nostalgic sentiment. In her 1953 version, Dinah Shore brought a fresh breath to this classic with her sweet traditional Pop style and the polished production typical of the 1950s. Songwriter: Usually credited to Daniel Decatur Emmett (though its true origins remain a subject of historical debate). Year Written: