Introduction:
“To Do What I Do” is a heartfelt track by American country music artist Alan Jackson, featured as the closing song on his twelfth studio album, What I Do, released on September 7, 2004. The album, produced by longtime collaborator Keith Stegall, showcases Jackson’s signature blend of traditional and contemporary country sounds.
The song “To Do What I Do” stands out as a live recording, serving as a tribute to Jackson’s fans and his journey in the music industry. In this track, Jackson expresses gratitude for his career, acknowledging the joy and fulfillment that performing brings him. The lyrics reflect his appreciation for the opportunity to share his music, with lines like, “There’s so much joy this music can bring, so I count my blessings when I step up to sing.”
What I Do achieved significant commercial success, debuting at number one on both the U.S. Billboard 200 and the Top Country Albums charts, with first-week sales of approximately 139,000 copies. This accomplishment marked Jackson’s third album to reach the top position on the Billboard 200 and his seventh to top the country chart. The album was later certified Platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), denoting over a million units sold.
The album produced four singles: “Too Much of a Good Thing,” “Monday Morning Church,” “The Talkin’ Song Repair Blues,” and “USA Today.” While “Too Much of a Good Thing” and “Monday Morning Church” both reached number five on the Hot Country Songs chart, “The Talkin’ Song Repair Blues” and “USA Today” peaked at number 18. Notably, What I Do was Jackson’s first album not to produce a number one hit.Critically, What I Do was well-received. People magazine awarded the album four stars, noting that Jackson “continues to sound more and more like Merle Haggard, which is tantamount to approaching perfection.”
“To Do What I Do” encapsulates Alan Jackson’s deep connection to his music and audience. The live recording adds an intimate layer to the song, allowing listeners to experience the authenticity and gratitude that Jackson conveys through his performance. As the final track on What I Do, it serves as a poignant conclusion to an album that blends heartfelt ballads with traditional country rhythms, highlighting Jackson’s enduring influence in the country music genre.