Where Her Heart Has Always Been – Alan Jackson

Introduction:

“Where Her Heart Has Always Been” by Alan Jackson is a deeply personal song, released in 2021 as part of his album Where Have You Gone. The song was written as a tribute to Jackson’s mother, Ruth Musick Jackson, who passed away in 2017. Initially composed for her funeral, the song reflects Jackson’s love and admiration for his mother and her faith.

A poignant feature of the track is a recording of Ruth reading a Bible passage (Luke 2:9), which was added to the song after one of Jackson’s sisters found the tape. This personal touch underscores the emotional weight of the song, which speaks to the comfort Jackson found in the belief that his mother was at peace and reunited with her loved ones. The song is filled with vivid imagery of nature and light, symbolizing her transition to a better place.

The soft melody, combined with the heartfelt lyrics and Jackson’s distinctive voice, creates a nostalgic and comforting atmosphere, resonating especially with those who have experienced the loss of a loved one. This tribute was one of the standout tracks on Where Have You Gone, alongside other personal songs like “You’ll Always Be My Baby,” written for his daughters’ weddings.

Video:

Lyrics:

“Where Her Heart Has Always Been”

The morning light was soft and low
The clouds had left an early snow
A peaceful sound was calling low
It’s time to goThen God reached out his tender hand
And gently pulled her home with him
And brushed away the sorrow from
Her soul within

And I could hear the roses sing
A bluebird softly claps its wings
The sun seemed brighter than it’s ever been

And now she’s dancing in the wind
With her true love again
Where her heart has always been
Where her heart has always been

And I could hear the roses sing
A bluebird softly claps its wings
The sun seemed brighter than it’s ever been

And now she’s dancing in the wind
With her true love again
Where her heart has always been
Where her heart has always been
Where her heart has always been

The morning light was soft and low
The clouds had left an early snow