Introduction:
Ah yes, Alan Jackson’s “It Must Be Love”, a tune that landed like a warm summer breeze on the country music charts in 2000. Jackson, a stalwart of the genre since the late 1980s, was already a household name by the turn of the millennium. Renowned for his smooth baritone and knack for capturing the simple joys and heartbreaks of rural life, Jackson had already amassed a shelf full of awards, including the prestigious Country Music Association’s Entertainer of the Year trophy in 1990.
“It Must Be Love” emerged from the acclaimed album Under the Influence, a project that paid homage to the country artists who inspired Jackson’s own sound. The album boasted a who’s-who of Nashville’s finest musicians, with Eddie Bayers Jr. on drums, the legendary Brent Mason on electric guitar, and the unmistakable steel guitar stylings of Paul Franklin. The production reins were handed to Keith Stegall, a long-time collaborator who understood Jackson’s vision perfectly.
The song itself is a delightful exploration of that heady, confusing state of being utterly smitten. While Jackson is known for his poignant ballads, “It Must Be Love” leans into a lighter, more playful side. The lyrics, penned by the ever-reliable Bob McDill, paint a picture of a man experiencing all the classic symptoms of love’s sweet affliction. He swings between hot and cold sweats, sleepless nights, and dreams filled with the object of his affection. There’s a charming vulnerability on display, a man utterly bewildered by the powerful emotions this new love has ignited.
“It Must Be Love” wasn’t just a critical darling; it resonated deeply with audiences as well. The song climbed the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, eventually reaching the coveted number one spot. It even managed to crossover appeal, reaching a respectable number 37 on the all-genre Billboard Hot 100. This kind of mainstream success solidified Jackson’s position as a country music superstar who could bridge the gap between traditional and contemporary sounds.
So, when you hear the opening notes of “It Must Be Love,” settle in for a delightful journey through the throes of new love. Jackson’s smooth vocals deliver McDill’s witty lyrics with a perfect blend of humor and sincerity, reminding us all of the intoxicating power of that crazy little thing called love.
Video:
Lyrics:
“It Must Be Love”
think I’m on fire, but I’m not.
Oh, what a pain I’ve got,
it must be love!
There’s nothing I can do,
all that I want is you.
Look what I’m going through,
it must be love!
It must be love, it must be love.
I fall like a sparrow and fly like a dove.
You must be the dream I been dreaming of,
oh what a feeling, it must be love!
Something is wrong or right,
I think of you all night.
Can’t sleep ’til morning light,
It must be love!
Seeing you in my dreams,
holding you close to me.
Oh, what else can it be?
It must be love!
It must be love, it must be love.
I fall like a sparrow and fly like a dove.
You must be the dream I been dreaming of
Oh what a feeling, it must be love.