Introduction:
“Where Were You (When the World Stopped Turning)” by Alan Jackson is a heartfelt ballad written in response to the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. Jackson, inspired by the profound emotions following the tragedy, penned the song early one Sunday morning. Reflecting the collective grief and introspection of the nation, the lyrics capture personal and spiritual responses to the events without assigning blame or making political statements. Jackson has described the song as a “gift” and admitted feeling that he merely channeled emotions shared by many Americans at the time.
The song debuted at the Country Music Association Awards in November 2001, just two months after the attacks. It immediately resonated with audiences, becoming a poignant anthem of unity and healing. The track dominated the charts, holding the number one spot on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs for five weeks and earning widespread acclaim. It went on to win prestigious accolades, including the Grammy Award for Best Country Song, and the CMA awards for Song of the Year and Single of the Year.
Jackson initially hesitated to release the song, given its emotional weight, but ultimately recognized its significance in helping listeners process their feelings. Today, the song remains a cornerstone of his career, cherished for its timeless message of compassion and reflection. Its legacy endures as a tribute to the resilience of the human spirit during one of the most challenging periods in American history.
Video:
Lyrics:
“Where Were You (When The World Stopped Turning)”
Were you in the yard with your wife and children
Or working on some stage in L.A.?
Did you stand there in shock
At the sight of that black smoke
Risin’ against that blue sky?
Did you shout out in anger
In fear for your neighbor
Or did you just sit down and cry?
Did you weep for the children who lost their dear loved ones
Pray for the ones who don’t know?
Did you rejoice for the people who walked from the rubble
And sob for the ones left below?
Did you burst out with pride
For the red, white and blue
And the heroes who died
Just doin’ what they do?
Did you look up to heaven for some kind of answer
And look at yourself and what really matters?
I’m just a singer of simple songs
I’m not a real political man
I watch CNN
But I’m not sure I can tell you
The difference in Iraq and Iran
But I know Jesus and I talk to God
And I remember this from when I was young
Faith, hope and love are some good things He gave us
And the greatest is love
Where were you when the world stopped turning on that September day?
Teaching a class full of innocent children
Or driving down some cold interstate?
Did you feel guilty
‘Cause you’re a survivor
In a crowded room did you feel alone?
Did you call up your mother
And tell her you loved her?
Did you dust off that Bible at home?
Did you open your eyes, hope it never happened
Close your eyes and not go to sleep?
Did you notice the sunset the first time in ages
Or speak to some stranger on the street?
Did you lay down at night and think of tomorrow
Go out and buy you a gun?
Did you turn off that violent old movie you’re watchin’
And turn on “I Love Lucy” reruns?
Did you go to a church and hold hands with some strangers
Stand in line and give your own blood?
Did you just stay home and cling tight to your family
Thank God you had somebody to love?
I’m just a singer of simple songs
I’m not a real political man
I watch CNN
But I’m not sure I can tell you
The difference in Iraq and Iran
But I know Jesus and I talk to God
And I remember this from when I was young
Faith, hope and love are some good things He gave us
And the greatest is love
I’m just a singer of simple songs
I’m not a real political man
I watch CNN
But I’m not sure I can tell you
The difference in Iraq and Iran
But I know Jesus and I talk to God
And I remember this from when I was young
Faith, hope and love are some good things He gave us
And the greatest is love
And the greatest is love
And the greatest is love
Where were you when the world stopped turning on that September day?