Alan Jackson – After 17

Introduction:

Alan Jackson’s song “After 17” is a track from his 2010 album Freight Train. Released on March 30, 2010, under the Arista Nashville label, the album showcases Jackson’s signature country style, blending neo-traditionalist country with contemporary country sounds. “After 17” captures the bittersweet and reflective themes Jackson often explores in his music, touching on themes of youth and coming-of-age challenges. The song’s poignant lyrics speak to the transformative period after adolescence, resonating with listeners who connect to Jackson’s ability to narrate universal experiences through a personal lens​.

Freight Train itself earned Jackson praise for staying true to his classic country roots while engaging contemporary listeners. Known for hits like “Chattahoochee” and “Remember When,” Jackson’s work on Freight Train showcases his consistency in producing heartfelt music that appeals across generations. Although “After 17” was not released as a single, the album performed well commercially, highlighting Jackson’s sustained popularity in the country genre​.

With Freight Train, Alan Jackson solidified his place as a leading figure in neo-traditional country. The album peaked at number 7 on the Billboard 200 and reached number 2 on Billboard’s Top Country Albums chart. This success underscores Jackson’s enduring influence and ability to stay relevant in a genre that deeply values its traditions.

Video:

Lyrics:

“After 17”

Her right hand closed the front porch door
Suddenly a child no more
All the ribbons all the bows in a box now on her closet floor
Anxious for whats to come
Afraid to leave a place she lovesShes not a woman not a girl
Trying to find her place in this crazy world
Meet a lover make a friend
Try and figure out what this life really means
After 17

Broken hearts and rusted dreams
Sometimes make it hard to leave and
Certainty is out of reach even with some self belief
So she bites her lip and shows a smile
Flips her hair and flaunts her style

Shes not a woman not a girl
Trying to find her place in this crazy world
Meet a lover make a friend
Try and figure out what this life really means
After 17

Her memories she stowed away
Pulls them out on rainy days
And brand new faces take their place beside the ones that never fade
Shes strong and fragile, weak and smart
Whatever the cost she plays the part

Shes not a woman not a girl
Trying to find her place in this crazy world
Meet a lover make a friend
Try and figure out what this life really means
After 17

Her right hand closed the front porch door
And suddenly a child no more.