Alan Jackson was one of the most popular country singers of the 1990s, arguably second only to Garth Brooks in popularity. Jackson has also projected a wholesome, clean-cut image while showing diverse talent by writing many of his own hits. Starting with his first album in 1989, Here in the Real World, and on into 2001, Alan racked up an impressive twenty number one singles and twenty more Top Ten hits.
On September 26, 2006, Arista Nashville will release Alan Jackson’s fourteenth album, Like Red on a Rose. The album's first single, the title cut, was produced by fellow musician Alison Krause. I don’t usually think of Alan Jackson as a crooner, but on "Like Red on a Rose,” he is clearly trying to heat things up. He sings like he's trying to seduce, all with a gentle quiver in his voice and measured restraint.
As much as there is to like about the song, the lyrics do meander a bit. We have the obvious attempt at seduction or flattery with lines like this: “You make my blood flow/ Like red on a rose." However, here we have a line about children I’m not sure works: "I love you like all children love pennies," a strange and utterly unsexy comparison that makes the song less seductive than it could be.
That being said, despite some of the lyrical weaknesses, I enjoyed "Like Red on a Rose" and found it to be a solid ballad I’m sure many will enjoy. Check out a full audio stream of "Like Red on a Rose" and keep an eye out for my full review of Alan Jackson’s forthcoming album.
Article comments
1 - Laurie Spezzano
Have you heard the other songs on the CD? I'm especially curious about the first track, "Anywhere on Earth You Are". I know one of the writers and have heard him sing it a few times - wondering how it sounds with Alan Jackson. Let me know if you've heard it!
Thanks
2 - Rebecca
I haven't heard it yet. I expect to in the next 10 days or so. Watch out for my review of the full album!
3 - Betty Lloyd
"Like Red On A Rose" is a beautiful, moody love song. The lyrics are beautiful. The people who are criticising "like all little children love pennies" just don't get it or understand the mood. It fits in with the other lyrics, very strong lyrics, "make my blood flow like red on a rose." To all you critical people - you are being to harse - there will people like me who love this. Think about it - really listen. It is beautiful. Who said it was seductive. Sorry, I do not think it was meant to be seductive. It is s very sweet, tender love song.
4 - JS
I think this is the most romantic song I have heard from Alan Jackson so far. It is a great song. The lyrics are so full of love and he sing it with such passion. I just love this song and can't say enough about it. Keep them coming Alan.
5 - Michele Mayner
This song, by Alan Jackson, is the most beautiful song I have ever heard. Most love songs I have heard described thru a rose..........has just never touched me quite like this one has.
Michele Mayner