Introduction:
“It’s Alright to Be a Redneck” is a country song by American artist Alan Jackson, released on November 5, 2001, as the fourth and final single from his album When Somebody Loves You. Written by Bill Kenner and Pat McLaughlin, the track celebrates Southern working-class culture, embracing the term “redneck” with a sense of pride and authenticity.
The song’s release was notably brief. Shortly after its debut, it was withdrawn to make way for Jackson’s poignant single, “Where Were You (When the World Stopped Turning),” which addressed the emotional aftermath of the September 11 attacks.
Critics responded positively to “It’s Alright to Be a Redneck.” Deborah Evans Price of Billboard described it as a “silly song” delivered with “good ole boy charm,” noting that Jackson’s history of releasing lighthearted singles had been well-received by fans. She concluded that the song was a hit “despite itself.”
The accompanying music video, directed by Steven Goldmann, premiered in August 2001. It features a child giving a school presentation on the origins of the word “redneck,” with Jackson performing the song in front of the class, adding a humorous and educational twist to the visual narrative.
Upon its release, the song re-entered the U.S. Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart at number 59 for the week of November 17, 2001.
“It’s Alright to Be a Redneck” exemplifies Alan Jackson’s ability to craft songs that resonate with everyday American life, blending humor with cultural pride. Despite its short-lived presence on the charts, the song remains a testament to Jackson’s connection with his roots and his audience.