[jrushing]

This is so true. Arguments actually break out as to the correct pronunciation. I've lived in all the deep Southern states and I can pick up on the differences so as to identify the state one is from.

Yes, even in the same state. I've lived in coastal Ala-Miss-Lou most of my life & have trouble sometimes with people from the northern parts of the state. There is a much more pronounced accent in North Ala-Miss-Lou.

[WVNan]

North Ala and southern Tenn is where I grew up and you're right. The accent is more pronounced. I can imitate the subtle differences and often do so when people ask where I'm from. "I'us bowrn in Tin-a-see, but growd up in Alll-abama, honey chile."

[arthurus]

Yes, even in the same state. I've lived in coastal Ala-Miss-Lou most of my life

Southern Louisiana has half a dozen or more distinct accents. There is Cajun, Creole, French (Golden Meadow) outside of New Orleans and several more in that city including one with Spanish roots (not counting the swarms of mexicans, these are old line Spanish folks. Further north it sounds like Mississippi or Texas and on up at the top it's like Arkansas.