Alan Jackson – When The Cat Goes Out

Introduction:

“When The Cat Goes Out” by Alan Jackson was released in 1987 as part of his debut album New Traditional. While not one of his most commercially successful songs, it is a gem within his catalog that resonates with fans of classic country music. The song is rooted in Jackson’s signature neotraditional country style, which blends honky-tonk influences with modern country elements. The album itself, New Traditional, marked Jackson’s entrance into the country music scene, establishing his characteristic sound that honors traditional country while incorporating contemporary appeal.

The song’s theme revolves around small-town life and the atmosphere of a local bar, with lyrics painting a vivid picture of the characters and stories that unfold as the night wears on. The title, “When The Cat Goes Out,” plays on the colloquial phrase referring to rule-breaking or having fun when someone in authority isn’t around. In this context, it alludes to the revelry that happens in bars after hours, reflecting the loosened inhibitions and carefree fun of late-night gatherings​.

Although “When The Cat Goes Out” didn’t reach the charts or receive significant radio play, it still holds a special place among Alan Jackson’s early works, representing the honky-tonk roots that influenced much of his later success. The song, like much of his early material, is likely inspired by the honky-tonks Jackson performed in before his rise to fame, capturing the spirit of those experiences​.

Video:

Lyrics:

“When The Cat Goes Out”

I’ll do anything I can
To keep our love together one more time
Sorry I deceived you
But you made it hard for me to stay in lineLoving you came easy
But for reasons I’ll explain I drift away
When the sun goes down and the cat goes out
The mice will play

Last week you went to Vegas with your friends
And left me here alone
I didn’t mind you leaving
But it hurts when you don’t call me when you’re gone

See my mind begins to wander
And I’ll find someone to take the hurt away
When the sun goes down and the cat goes out
The mice will play

Loving you came easy
But for reasons I’ve explained I drift away
When the sun goes down and the cat goes out
The mice will play