Amarillo – Alan Jackson

Introduction:

“Amarillo” is a song by American country music artist Alan Jackson, featured on his 1998 album High Mileage. While the song was never released as an official single, it stands out as one of the tracks that reflect Jackson’s classic blend of traditional country sounds and storytelling. Jackson, known for his neo-traditional country style, consistently infused his work with influences from honky-tonk and mainstream country, and “Amarillo” is no exception.

The High Mileage album, released on September 1, 1998, marked a significant period in Jackson’s career. At the time, he was one of the reigning stars in the country music world, thanks to a string of successful albums and hit singles. High Mileage debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart and No. 4 on the Billboard 200, showcasing Jackson’s broad appeal both within and outside of the country genre. Although the album had several successful singles such as “Right on the Money” and “Gone Crazy,” “Amarillo” was not pushed for radio airplay, remaining more of a fan-favorite track on the album.

Musically, “Amarillo” stays true to Jackson’s country roots, blending elements of traditional country with modern influences of the late 1990s. The song features pedal steel guitars, fiddles, and a straightforward rhythm, providing a classic country backdrop to a narrative about longing and distance. In this case, “Amarillo” symbolizes a destination that is far away both physically and emotionally, tapping into themes of separation, heartache, and yearning.

While “Amarillo” did not receive the same commercial spotlight as some of Jackson’s biggest hits, it remains an integral part of High Mileage, a reflective album that earned Alan Jackson widespread acclaim for his storytelling, authentic sound, and ability to balance mainstream appeal with deep-rooted country traditions.

Video:

Lyrics:

“Amarillo”

The time has come, You’re really leavin’
You always told me that you wanted to
I guess I never thought It would happen
I guess I never really wanted it to
The world is calling you and you must answer
But you can take me with you In your dreams[Chorus:]
If you ever get back to Amarillo
In a shiny new car or worn out shoes
If you ever get back to Amarillo
I’ll be waitin’ for you

Your sister told me you were workin’
At some office out in tinsel town
Don’t forget about those who love you
They’ll be there for you if you get down
I believe in you and all you’re after
I hope you end up where you want to be

[Chorus:]
If you ever get back to Amarillo
In a shiny new car or worn out shoes
If you ever get back to Amarillo
I’ll be waitin’ for you

Thirty years now have gone by quickly
I still think of you from time to time
My wife died early, I’ve got children
I’m happy and my health is fine
I often wondered if you found your freedom
I sometimes wonder if I should have gone

[Chorus:]
If you ever get back to Amarillo
In a shiny new car or worn out shoes
If you ever get back to Amarillo
I’ll be waitin’ for you.

[Chorus:]
If you ever get back to Amarillo
In a shiny new car or worn out shoes
If you ever get back to Amarillo
I’ll be waitin’ for you

I’ll be waiting for you.
I’ll be waiting for you.!…