Introduction:
“Strong Enough” by Alan Jackson is a reflective and heartfelt song that delves into themes of resilience and emotional endurance, characteristic of Jackson’s nuanced approach to storytelling. Part of his album What I Do, released in 2004, this track highlights Jackson’s signature blend of traditional country influences with a contemporary sound. The song’s introspective lyrics explore a vulnerable perspective, where the narrator questions if he can withstand the challenges life presents, echoing the universal quest for inner strength and resolve.
The song was co-written by Adam Wright, Jackson’s nephew, who has collaborated on other projects with Jackson, adding a familial depth to the songwriting process. “Strong Enough” stands out for its stripped-back instrumentation, allowing Jackson’s emotive voice and the song’s poignant lyrics to take center stage. This approach aligns well with Jackson’s stylistic roots in neotraditional country, a genre that emphasizes authenticity and simple storytelling.
The What I Do album saw significant success, reaching the top of the Billboard Top Country Albums chart and further cementing Jackson’s influence in country music. Songs like “Strong Enough” helped the album resonate with fans by addressing themes of resilience and introspection that were especially relatable. Overall, “Strong Enough” showcases Jackson’s ability to merge relatable narratives with a traditional country sound, making it a memorable piece in his discography. For more details, you can check sources like AllMusic.
Video:
Lyrics:
“Strong Enough”
And I just took your picture off the wall
Hide from you anywhere I’m able
But there’s one place I can’t hide from you at all[Chorus:]
Tennessee, you don’t make the whiskey
California, you don’t make the wine
And Mexico, you don’t make tequila
Strong enough to get her off my mind
Memories seem to know just where to find me
And lately they’re all that I recall
And everything in this old house reminds me
Of the love I had and how I lost it all
[Repeat chorus]
Days go by and I still feel the sorrow
And time don’t make a difference in the pain
Just sitting here and waiting on tomorrow
Will drive me crazy if I don’t go insane
[Repeat chorus]
Strong enough to get her off my mind
Strong enough to get her off my mind