The Little Things

The song "The Little Things" by Southern Culture On The Skids from their 2013 album Dig This is a twangy, rockabilly-infused track that captures the band’s signature blend of Southern culture and wry humor. The lyrics tell the story of a man reflecting on how small quirks—like his love for raw onions, smoked oysters, and the odor he gives off—led to the end of his relationship. In a 2013 interview with No Depression, guitarist and vocalist Rick Miller explained that the song was inspired by real-life observations of how seemingly trivial habits can become dealbreakers in relationships. He noted, “It’s those little things you don’t think about, like how you eat your barbecue or the way you smell after a long day—they can hit harder than the big fights.” The song’s playful yet poignant tone resonates with fans, often sparking discussions on Facebook fan groups about their own “little things” that have caused romantic friction.

Fans on X have shared stories about the song’s live performances, where the band enhances its quirky charm with Miller’s animated stage presence and bassist Mary Huff’s deadpan backing vocals. A 2014 post from a fan on the band’s official Facebook page recounted a memorable show in Raleigh, North Carolina, where Miller tossed Funyuns into the crowd during the song’s bridge, much to the delight of the audience. The track’s inclusion on Dig This, a re-recording of their 1994 album Ditch Diggin’, was a nod to longtime fans, as the band aimed to refresh the original songs with modern production while keeping their raw energy. Miller mentioned in a Paste Magazine interview that the re-recording was partly inspired by a humorous incident at their Kudzu Ranch studio, where they had to dig out blocked drains, sparking the album’s title and vibe.

Southern Culture On The Skids, often abbreviated as SCOTS, formed in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, in 1983, rooted in the creative energy of the local college scene. Rick Miller, the band’s founder, grew up splitting time between Henderson, North Carolina, and southern California, absorbing a mix of rural Southern culture and West Coast influences. After earning an art degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Miller started the band with a vision to blend rockabilly, surf rock, and country with a tongue-in-cheek take on Southern life. The original lineup included Miller on guitar, Stan Lewis on vocals, Leslie Land on bass, and Chip Shelby on drums. According to a bio on their official website, the band’s name came from a moment of frustration when Miller and a roommate heard an REM song on UNC’s radio station, dubbed “the sound of the new South.” Miller quipped, “I preferred it when it was on the skids,” and the name stuck.

The band’s early years were marked by a DIY ethos, releasing their debut EP Voodoo Beach Party in 1984 and a self-titled album in 1985 on local indie label Lloyd Street. By 1987, the lineup shifted when Lewis and Land left, and Miller took over lead vocals. Mary Huff, from Roanoke, Virginia, joined on bass and vocals, bringing her distinctive voice and retro aesthetic, followed by drummer Dave Hartman, also from Roanoke. This trio solidified SCOTS’ sound, mixing swamp rock, surf guitar, and humorous lyrics about fried chicken, trailer parks, and Southern quirks. Their breakthrough came with 1991’s Too Much Pork for Just One Fork, which introduced fan favorites like “Eight Piece Box.” The band’s Instagram often showcases their enduring chemistry, with posts of vintage gig posters and behind-the-scenes studio shots that highlight their 40-year journey.

For fans looking to connect, Southern Culture On The Skids’ official website offers tour dates, merchandise, and music updates. Their Facebook page is active with show announcements and fan interactions, while Instagram provides a visual dive into their retro-inspired world. On X, the band shares quick updates and engages with followers. The SCOTS Fans Facebook group is a lively community where Zoo Freaks and other devotees swap stories, share concert photos, and discuss songs like “The Little Things.” Additionally, fan-run sites like Last.fm offer detailed discographies and listener stats, making it a go-to for discovering more about SCOTS’ extensive catalog.