Introduction:
“I Love to Tell the Story” is a cherished hymn that has been embraced by many artists over the years, including country music star Alan Jackson. Jackson’s rendition of this classic hymn is featured on his thirteenth studio album, “Precious Memories,” which was released on February 28, 2006, by Arista Nashville. This album marked Jackson’s first foray into gospel music, showcasing his deep-rooted faith and paying homage to the hymns that influenced his upbringing.
The album “Precious Memories” is a collection of traditional gospel songs that hold personal significance for Jackson. Initially, the project began when Jackson recorded a song for his father-in-law’s funeral at The Rukkus Room Recording Studios. This heartfelt gesture evolved into a full-length album, reflecting Jackson’s desire to honor his family and faith through music. The album encompasses a variety of beloved hymns, with “I Love to Tell the Story” being the third track on the record.
Musically, “Precious Memories” falls within the Christian country and gospel genres, blending Jackson’s signature country style with traditional gospel elements. The arrangements are characterized by their simplicity and sincerity, allowing the profound messages of the hymns to resonate with listeners. Jackson’s smooth vocals and acoustic instrumentation create an intimate atmosphere, inviting audiences to reflect on the spiritual themes presented in the songs.
Upon its release, “Precious Memories” achieved significant commercial success. The album debuted at No. 4 on the U.S. Billboard 200 chart and secured the No. 1 spot on the Top Country Albums chart, marking Jackson’s eighth album to reach the top position in the country category. In August 2006, the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) certified the album Platinum, acknowledging over a million units sold. By November 2017, “Precious Memories” had sold approximately 389,600 copies in the United States.
The hymn “I Love to Tell the Story” itself has a rich history. Written by English evangelist Katherine Hankey in 1866 during a period of illness, the hymn was part of a larger work divided into two sections: “The Story Wanted” and “The Story Told.” The latter section provided the verses that became “I Love to Tell the Story,” which was later set to music by William G. Fischer. The hymn emphasizes the joy and importance of sharing the narrative of Jesus and His love, a theme that has resonated with congregations for over a century.
Alan Jackson’s rendition of “I Love to Tell the Story” honors this timeless message, delivering it with heartfelt sincerity. His performance bridges the gap between traditional gospel and contemporary country music, introducing the hymn to new audiences while preserving its enduring spiritual significance. Through “Precious Memories,” Jackson not only pays tribute to the hymns of his youth but also reaffirms the lasting power of these songs to inspire and comfort listeners across generations.