“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
“Here In The Real World” is a classic country song by renowned American artist Alan Jackson. Released in 1990, it served as the title track for Jackson’s debut studio album and became a defining piece in his career. The song resonated with audiences for its heartfelt lyrics and genuine portrayal of life’s realities, catapulting Jackson into the spotlight and establishing him as a prominent figure in country music.
The song’s success marked the beginning of a fruitful career for Jackson, who would go on to become one of the genre’s most celebrated artists. “Here In The Real World” captured the essence of traditional country with its storytelling and emotional depth, characteristics that Jackson would continue to incorporate throughout his musical journey.
About The Composition
- Title: Here In The Real World
- Composer: Alan Jackson, Mark Irwin
- Premiere Date: 1990
- Album/Opus/Collection: Here in the Real World
- Genre: Country
Background
“Here In The Real World” was written by Alan Jackson and Mark Irwin and became a pivotal track in Jackson’s burgeoning career. The song was released as a single in 1990 and quickly climbed the charts, reaching number three on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart. It was the title track of Jackson’s debut album, which played a significant role in defining his style and establishing his reputation as an authentic voice in the country music scene.
The album “Here in the Real World” itself was a commercial success, earning critical acclaim for its traditional country sound and storytelling. This track, in particular, highlighted Jackson’s ability to convey emotion and connect with listeners through relatable themes.
Musical Style
“Here In The Real World” is characterized by its traditional country instrumentation, featuring acoustic guitar, steel guitar, and fiddle. The song’s arrangement underscores the emotional weight of the lyrics, with a slow tempo that allows Jackson’s vocal delivery to take center stage. The melody is simple yet effective, complementing the song’s reflective nature and enhancing its poignant message.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrical themes of “Here In The Real World” revolve around the contrast between idealized notions of life and the harsher realities that people often face. The song poignantly expresses the disappointment and resilience that come with unmet expectations, making it relatable to a wide audience. Its narrative quality and emotional honesty are hallmarks of Jackson’s songwriting style.
Performance History
Since its release, “Here In The Real World” has been performed by Alan Jackson at numerous concerts and events. It remains a staple in his live performances, often eliciting strong emotional responses from audiences. The song’s enduring popularity has ensured its presence in Jackson’s setlists, serving as a reminder of his roots and the start of his illustrious career.
Cultural Impact
“Here In The Real World” has had a significant cultural impact, resonating with fans and influencing aspiring country musicians. Its success helped pave the way for a resurgence of traditional country music in the 1990s. The song’s themes have been reflected in various media, and its influence is evident in the works of artists who followed in Jackson’s footsteps.
Legacy
Today, “Here In The Real World” continues to be celebrated as a classic in the country music genre. Its authentic portrayal of life’s challenges and Jackson’s heartfelt performance have cemented its status as an enduring piece of music history. The song remains a touchstone for country music fans and serves as an inspiration for new generations of artists.
Conclusion
“Here In The Real World” by Alan Jackson is a timeless classic that captures the essence of traditional country music. Its heartfelt lyrics and emotional depth resonate with listeners, making it a cornerstone of Jackson’s repertoire. For those interested in exploring the roots of modern country music, this song offers a perfect starting point. I encourage you to listen to it and delve deeper into Alan Jackson’s impressive catalog for more rich storytelling and musical craftsmanship.
Video
Lyrics
(Alan Jackson – Mark Irwin)
Cowboys don’t cry and heroes don’t die.
And good always wins again and again.
And love is a sweet dream that always comes true
Oh, if life were like the movies, I’d never be blue.
But here in the real world it’s not that easy at all,
‘Cause when hearts get broken it’s real tears that fall.
And darlin’, it’s sad but true but the one thing I’ve learned from you,
Is how the boy don’t always get the girl here in the real world.
— Instrumental —
I gave you my love but that wasn’t enough,
To hold your heart when times got rough.
And tonight on that silver screen it’ll end like it should,
Two lovers will make it through like I hoped we would.
But here in the real world it’s not that easy at all,
‘Cause when hearts get broken it’s real tears that fall.
And darlin’, it’s sad but true but the one thing I’ve learned from you,
Is how the boy don’t always get the girl here in the real world.
How the boys don’t always get the girl here in the real world…