Introduction:
Alan Jackson’s “Job Description” is a poignant country ballad released in 1994. It was included on his album “Greatest Hits Volume II,” a compilation of his most popular songs. The track is a classic example of Jackson’s signature neotraditional country sound, characterized by its straightforward lyrics, soulful melodies, and traditional instrumentation.
The song’s central theme is the simple yet profound appreciation for the working class and the value of hard work. Jackson paints a vivid picture of everyday life, from the early morning alarm clock to the late-night commute home. He sings of the challenges and rewards of a typical job, highlighting the satisfaction that comes from a day well-spent and a task completed.
“Job Description” resonated deeply with audiences, and it quickly became a beloved country anthem. The song’s relatable lyrics, coupled with Jackson’s heartfelt delivery, made it a favorite at live shows and radio stations alike. It reached the top of the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, solidifying Jackson’s position as one of the most popular country artists of the 1990s.
Beyond its commercial success, “Job Description” also stands as a testament to Jackson’s songwriting prowess. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to capture the essence of the American working class, a theme that continues to resonate with listeners today. Its simple yet powerful message has made it a timeless classic in the country music canon.
Video:
Lyrics:
“Job Description”
To understand just what we do out here
Well that bus rolls up at home
And I just disappear
And I sure don’t like to leave you
Couldn’t stand for you to think that I don’t care
So I wrote this job description
Just to tell you what I do when I’m not there
I sleep eighty miles an hour
To the whining of a diesel down the interstate
Dreamin’ ’bout my little girls
The easy chair that sits beside the fireplace
Then we shut her down in another town
Shower up and do just what we came to do
Sing for the people
Count the money and the miles back home to you
Well each night I take the stage
With a six piece band and a guitar in my hand
Singin’ songs about my life
All the good times and the bad
Then we say goodbye and we load it up
And head somewhere I’ve already been
Then I lay down in that double bed alone
And I thank the Lord again
I sleep eighty miles an hour
To the whining of a diesel down the interstate
Dreamin’ ’bout my little girls
The easy chair that sits beside the fireplace
Then we shut her down in another town
Shower up and do just what we came to do
Sing for the people
Count the money and the miles back home to you
Well I just sing for the people
Count the money and the miles back home to you