Alan Jackson – I Still Like Bologna

Introduction:

Released in 2008 as part of Alan Jackson’s sixteenth studio album, Good Time, “I Still Like Bologna” is a notable example of Jackson’s ability to fuse traditional country themes with reflections on modern life. The song is a witty, laid-back ode to balancing the conveniences of the digital age with simple, old-fashioned pleasures. Known for his distinctive blend of neotraditional country and mainstream influences, Alan Jackson has always been a master of telling relatable stories through his music, and “I Still Like Bologna” continues that tradition.

The song’s genre is country, aligning with Jackson’s signature style, which leans heavily on classic country sounds, including elements of honky-tonk and traditional instruments like the steel guitar and fiddle. This track, however, introduces a touch of humor, contrasting the advancements of the 21st century with a love for the simpler things in life, like a good old bologna sandwich.

Keith Stegall, a longtime collaborator with Jackson, produced the song. Stegall had worked with Jackson on numerous hits throughout his career, and their partnership is often credited with helping to shape Jackson’s unique sound. “I Still Like Bologna” was written by Alan Jackson himself, further showcasing his talent as both a songwriter and performer. His ability to capture everyday experiences in a way that resonates with a wide audience is a hallmark of his work.

While the song wasn’t a major chart-topping single, it became popular among Jackson’s fans for its humor and down-to-earth lyrics. The album Good Time itself was a commercial success, debuting at number one on the Billboard 200 chart and spawning several hit singles, including “Small Town Southern Man” and the title track “Good Time.” “I Still Like Bologna” serves as a standout track for its lightheartedness in an album filled with deeper emotional reflections.

Alan Jackson has been celebrated throughout his career for his authenticity and his dedication to preserving traditional country music in a world that increasingly leans toward pop-country fusion. Songs like “I Still Like Bologna” are a testament to his ability to stay true to his roots while still engaging with contemporary themes. It reflects on the tension between the modern world’s conveniences, like email and cell phones, and the charm of simple, timeless pleasures, like bologna sandwiches.

In terms of achievements, while “I Still Like Bologna” didn’t receive major awards or high positions on the charts, its charm and wit have cemented it as a fan favorite. It’s a perfect example of Jackson’s unique ability to bridge the past and present, offering listeners a refreshing take on the ever-evolving world, all while staying grounded in the timeless values that country music often celebrates.

The song’s enduring appeal lies in its relatability, with fans appreciating Jackson’s nod to nostalgia while acknowledging the changes that come with time.

Video:

Lyrics:

“I Still Like Bologna”

There’s
Satellite communications
Long distance
Internet relations
The world’s
A little faster every day
I know it’s all
Well and good
And I don’t embrace it
Like I should
But I wouldn’t wanna go
Backwards even if I could[Chorus:]
But I still
Like Bologna
On white bread
Now and then
And the sound
Of a whippoorwill
Down a country road
The grass between my toes
And that sunset sinking low
And a good woman’s love
To hold me close
I like my 50 inch
HD plasma

Feels like
They just reach out
And grab you
500 channels
At my command
I finally gave in
And got a cell phone
That I hardly
Ever seem to turn on
I guess I never had
That much to say

[Chorus]

I got a laptop
That sits on a desk
I don’t use it much
Except to check
On some ole car
From yesterday
I kinda like
That music thang
You just download ’em
And you can save about
Every song
That’s ever been made

[Chorus]

Well I guess
What I’ve been
Trying to say
This digital world
Is okay
It makes life better
Iin a lot of ways
But it can’t make
The smell of spring
Or sunshine or lots
Of little things
We take for granted
Every day

[Chorus]

Yeah, Bologna
A woman’s love
And a good cell phone