Alan Jackson – They Call Me A Playboy

Introduction:

“They Call Me a Playboy” is a country song by American singer-songwriter Alan Jackson, released in 1992. It appears on Jackson’s second studio album, Don’t Rock the Jukebox, which was released in 1991. This album played a significant role in establishing Alan Jackson as one of the leading figures in the country music genre during the early 1990s. Known for his neotraditionalist country style, Jackson became a voice of authenticity and tradition in the face of a rapidly changing country music landscape.

The song is a classic country ballad that showcases Jackson’s smooth baritone and his ability to tell compelling stories through music. “They Call Me a Playboy” narrates the perspective of a man who is perceived by others as a “playboy” due to his wandering lifestyle and numerous relationships. However, beneath the surface, there is a sense of melancholy and longing for a deeper connection, which adds emotional depth to the song. This theme of duality—public perception versus personal reality—is a common thread in many of Jackson’s songs, where he blends straightforward narratives with complex emotional undertones.

“They Call Me a Playboy” fits within the neotraditional country genre, a movement that sought to return country music to its roots by emphasizing traditional instrumentation and storytelling, as opposed to the more pop-oriented sound that was gaining popularity at the time. The song features a prominent steel guitar and fiddle, both hallmarks of traditional country music, which help to create a classic, timeless sound that resonated with country music fans.

While “They Call Me a Playboy” was not released as a single, Don’t Rock the Jukebox achieved significant commercial success, reaching number 2 on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart and earning multi-platinum certification by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). The album produced five hit singles, including “Don’t Rock the Jukebox,” “Someday,” and “Dallas,” solidifying Alan Jackson’s place as a rising star in the country music world.

Through songs like “They Call Me a Playboy,” Jackson demonstrated his commitment to maintaining the core elements of country music while also appealing to a broad audience, a balance that has characterized his career and contributed to his status as a country music icon.

Video:

Lyrics:

“They Call Me A Playboy”
(originally by Wynn Stewart)