Introduction:
“She’s Got the Rhythm (And I Got the Blues)” is a hit song by Alan Jackson, released in October 1992 as the lead single from his album A Lot About Livin’ (And a Little ‘Bout Love). Co-written by Jackson and fellow country artist Randy Travis, the song became a major success, reaching the number one spot on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart by December 1992. It stayed at the top for several weeks, marking another milestone in Jackson’s career during his early ’90s dominance of country music.
The song is a classic example of Jackson’s neo-traditionalist style, blending honky-tonk rhythms with heartfelt, down-to-earth storytelling. In the lyrics, the protagonist laments the loss of his lover, who has moved on and now “has the rhythm,” leaving him with the blues. The song’s catchy melody and danceable tempo complement the sorrowful theme, creating a balance between light-heartedness and regret.
The collaboration between Jackson and Travis was particularly noteworthy, as both were instrumental in shaping the direction of country music in the 1990s. The song’s blend of contemporary country and traditional elements resonated with a wide audience, cementing its place as one of Jackson’s signature tunes. Its success contributed significantly to the multi-platinum status of the A Lot About Livin’ album.
Video:
Lyrics:
“She’s Got The Rhythm (And I Got The Blues)”
This old bar stool’s feelin’ higher
‘Cause I’ve started sinkin’ lower
The minute that she waltzed right through that door
Not long ago I held her, like a fool I went and left her
Now she’s with somebody new out on that floorAnd she’s got the rhythm and I got the blues
And she’s showin’ me how much I had to lose
With her every little move she’s tellin’ me I’m over you
She’s got the rhythm and I’ve got the bluesWell that music’s gettin’ louder
As my heart keeps beatin’ faster
As she spells out regret in perfect time
Well I thought I wanted freedom but that ball and chain I need ’em
‘Cause when you choose sometimes you lose the prize‘Cause she’s got the rhythm and I got the blues
And she’s showin’ me how much I had to lose
With her every little move she’s tellin’ me I’m over you
She’s got the rhythm and I’ve got the blues
Yeah with her every little move she’s tellin’ me I’m over you
She’s got the rhythm and I got the blues