Introduction:
Here in the Real World: A Look Back at Alan Jackson’s Country Classic
Alan Jackson’s “Here In The Real World” isn’t just a catchy tune, it’s a song that captured the essence of working-class America in the early 1990s. Released in 1990, the single became a breakout hit for Jackson, propelling him to national stardom and cementing his place as a voice for the common man.
But the song’s origins trace back even further. Songwriters Bryan McCombs and Deakon Chessman penned the lyrics in the late 1980s, drawing inspiration from their own experiences. McCombs, a struggling songwriter at the time, reportedly wrote the first verse while working a construction job. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of blue-collar life, with lines like “Cowboys don’t cry, and heroes don’t die / Good always wins, that’s what they tell you in the lullaby” giving way to the harsh realities of “holding on to a dream in this pressure cooker world.”
McCombs and Chessman struggled to find a home for the song. It was rejected by several artists before landing in the hands of Alan Jackson, then a relatively unknown singer. Jackson immediately connected with the song’s message. Having grown up in a small town in Georgia, he understood the struggles and aspirations of working-class America.
“Here In The Real World” became the title track of Jackson’s 1990 album. The song’s simple yet powerful melody, coupled with Jackson’s distinctive baritone vocals, resonated with audiences. It reached number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and stayed there for three weeks. The song’s success not only launched Jackson’s career but also helped usher in a new era of country music, one that celebrated the everyday lives of ordinary people.
“Here In The Real World” transcended genre lines, becoming an anthem for anyone facing the challenges of life. The song continues to be a fan favorite at Jackson’s concerts, a testament to its enduring popularity and its place as a cornerstone of country music history.