I think the phrase Fire on the Mountain has a lot of different meanings and origins—the California gold rush, some religious interpretations, first light on mountain peaks, etc.… But for me it will always be The Marshall Tucker Band - Fire On The Mountain song that rings in my ear every time I see alpenglow on a mountain peak; it reminds me of some good old times with my younger brother. We listened to all kinds of music together but country rock stayed in our hearts through the years.

My brother Nick, recently lost his battle with cancer. He had moved back to NJ to be with his family for his final months. Listening to this song reminded me of him and a lifetime ago. I raise a beer to you in heaven Nick, I love you and miss you. I will never look at another fiery mountain scene the same.

The chorus:

“And there's fire on the mountain, lightning in the air
Gold in them hills and it's waiting for me there...”

I like the live version of this song below. It gives you a sense of the times.