Introduction:
“If Love Was a River” is a heartfelt ballad by Alan Jackson, featured on his 2004 album What I Do. Produced by Keith Stegall, the song is a classic example of Jackson’s ability to blend storytelling with emotional depth, creating a poignant narrative about love’s complexities. Using the metaphor of a river to symbolize love’s flow, challenges, and beauty, the song captures the essence of relationships through its reflective lyrics and traditional country instrumentation.
The track showcases Jackson’s signature vocal style, supported by subtle yet evocative arrangements featuring steel guitar and fiddle. Although it wasn’t released as a single, the song has earned acclaim for its lyrical poignancy and Jackson’s emotive delivery. It resonates deeply with fans, cementing its place as a standout in his extensive catalog of love songs.
“If Love Was a River” is a testament to Jackson’s skill as a storyteller and his ability to evoke universal emotions through simple yet profound imagery. Its inclusion on What I Do contributes to the album’s introspective and romantic tone, solidifying Jackson’s reputation as one of country music’s most enduring and versatile artists.
Video:
Lyrics:
“If Love Was A River”
And I was a drowning man
Would you get in the water
Would you lend me a hand
If love was a river
Would you sit on the landIf love was a mountain
High above this town
Would you climb to the top
Would you never look down
If love was a mountain
Would you go aroundLove rarely knocks so many times upon your door
And heaven only knows if it will come back anymore
If love was a firefly
Sitting in your hand
Would you laugh when it twinkled
Let it go again
If love was a firefly
Would you understand
If love was a party
With everyone you know
Would you dance if I asked you
Would you smile and say no
If love was a party
Would you even go
Love rarely knocks so many times upon your door
And heaven only knows if it will come back anymore
If love was a fast train on a one-way track
Would you turn in your ticket
Would you never look back
If love was a fast train
Would you even pack?