Minor differences!?   Joe, you must not be a birdwatcher. Changing 'jaybird' to 'blackbird' is not a minor difference. Jays are mean, aggessive birds, the big bullies of the backyard until a mockingbird comes along.

I believe I've heard 'jaybird' used as an expression of disdain for a jerky human before.   

Blackbirds (either the red-winged or yellowheaded kind) are peaceful, decent country birds.

I like it that the singer knows his birds.

Tangipaho - hard g or soft? I'm gonna go see if there actually is such a river.