Introduction:
Ah, yes, The Blues Man by the esteemed Alan Jackson. Released in 1999 on his album Under the Influence, this track is a prime example of Jackson’s ability to weave classic country storytelling with a touch of modern twang. Now, settle in, folks, and let’s delve a little deeper.
Jackson, a true giant of country music, rose to prominence in the late 80s and early 90s with his distinctive baritone voice and songs that resonated with heartland America. He’s a traditionalist at heart, but unafraid to incorporate new sounds without sacrificing the genre’s core elements. Under the Influence, the album that birthed The Blues Man, is a testament to that. It’s a collection of tunes that pays homage to country legends like Hank Williams Sr. and Sr.’s son, Hank Williams Jr., the very songwriter behind The Blues Man.
Interestingly, the song’s origin story adds another layer of intrigue. You see, The Blues Man wasn’t penned specifically for Jackson. Hank Williams Jr. had written it years prior, but it never quite found its home. When Jackson stumbled upon the track, however, he recognized its potential. The melancholic melody, the poignant lyrics – they all resonated with Jackson’s own artistic sensibilities. With the skillful production of Keith Stegall, who has been Jackson’s musical confidante for much of his career, The Blues Man was brought to life.
The song itself is a character study, a portrait of a man deeply embedded in the world of the blues. He’s not your flamboyant rockstar; this is a quiet soul, a natural-born guitarist who finds solace in the sorrowful strains of his instrument. He’s a storyteller, a weaver of tales both joyous and heartbreaking, all channeled through the blues. There’s a hint of admiration in Jackson’s delivery as he sings about this enigmatic figure, the Blues Man.
The Blues Man wasn’t a chart-topping smash hit, but it resonated deeply with fans and critics alike. It became a staple of Jackson’s live performances, particularly at benefit concerts like Farm Aid, where it served as a beautiful ode to the enduring power of music, especially the raw, emotional honesty that defines the blues.
So, when you hit play on The Blues Man, you’re not just listening to a song; you’re embarking on a journey. It’s a chance to appreciate Alan Jackson’s masterful storytelling, his respect for country music’s heritage, and the timeless allure of the blues. It’s a simple yet profound reminder that sometimes, the most powerful emotions are best expressed through a weathered guitar and a voice steeped in sorrow.
Video:
Lyrics:
“The Blues Man”
He’s just a singer
A natural born guitar ringer
Kind of clinger
To sad ole songs.
He’s not a walk behinder
He’s a new note finder
His name’s a reminder
Of a blues man that’s already gone.
So he started drinkin’
Took some things that messed up his thinkin’
He was sure sinkin’
When she came along.
He was alone in the spot light
Not too much left in sight
She changed all that one night
When she sang him this song
Hey, baby I love you
Hey, baby I need you
Hey, baby you ain’t got to prove to me
You’re some kind of macho man
You’ve wasted so much of your life
Runnin’ through the dark nights
Let me shine a little love light
Down on that blues man.
He got so sick from speedin’
All the things they said he was needin’
If he is to keep on pleasin’
All of his fans
He got cuffed on dirt roads
He got sued over no shows
She came and took all that ole load
Down off that blues man
And he said…
Hey, baby I love you too
Hey, baby I need you
Hey, baby I do get tired
Of this travellin band
I’m over 40 years old now
Nights would be cold now
If you hadn’t stuck it out
With this blues man
He’s over 40 years old now
Nights would be so cold now
If she hadn’t hung around
With that blues man.