“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
“Here in the Real World” is a song by American country music artist Alan Jackson. Released in 1990 as the lead single from his debut album of the same name, the song marked a significant milestone in Jackson’s career, establishing him as a prominent figure in the country music scene. The track is celebrated for its heartfelt lyrics and traditional country sound, which resonated with audiences and helped solidify Jackson’s reputation as a storyteller through music.
The song’s success was pivotal in Alan Jackson’s rise in the music industry, earning him widespread recognition and appreciation. “Here in the Real World” speaks to the often harsh realities of life, contrasting them with the idealized versions often portrayed in movies and fairy tales. Its authenticity and relatability are key factors that contributed to its popularity and enduring appeal.
About The Composition
- Title: Here In The Real World
- Composer: Alan Jackson, Mark Irwin
- Premiere Date: 1989
- Album/Opus/Collection: Here in the Real World
- Genre: Country
Background
“Here in the Real World” was the breakthrough single for Alan Jackson, released as part of his debut album. Its success helped establish him as a leading voice in country music in the early 1990s. The song was co-written by Jackson and Mark Irwin, and it highlights Jackson’s ability to blend traditional country themes with contemporary sensibilities. Its release came at a time when country music was experiencing a resurgence in popularity, and Jackson’s work was at the forefront of this movement.
The song’s narrative contrasts the idealized portrayals of romance with the often disappointing realities faced in real life. This theme resonated widely, particularly with audiences who appreciated Jackson’s straightforward and sincere approach to songwriting. The song’s success paved the way for Jackson’s illustrious career, characterized by numerous hits and awards.
Musical Style
“Here in the Real World” features a traditional country music style, characterized by its use of acoustic guitar, steel guitar, and a steady, melodic rhythm. The song’s arrangement complements Jackson’s smooth, emotive vocal delivery, enhancing the poignant and introspective nature of the lyrics. The musical composition effectively supports the storytelling aspect of the song, a hallmark of Jackson’s music.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrics of “Here in the Real World” explore themes of disillusionment and realism. They contrast the fairy tale endings often depicted in movies with the more challenging and sometimes disappointing experiences of real life. This lyrical theme is central to the song’s impact, as it speaks to the universal experience of facing life’s imperfections and learning to cope with them.
Performance History
“Here in the Real World” has been performed by Alan Jackson in numerous concerts and television appearances, contributing to its lasting presence in his repertoire. The song’s popularity led to it becoming a staple in Jackson’s live performances, further cementing its status as a classic in the country music genre. Notably, it has been a highlight in Jackson’s tours, often eliciting strong emotional responses from audiences.
Cultural Impact
The cultural impact of “Here in the Real World” is significant, as it helped define the sound of 1990s country music. Its success on the charts and airwaves introduced Alan Jackson to a broader audience, contributing to the revival of traditional country music during that era. The song has also been featured in various media, enhancing its reach and influence.
Legacy
Today, “Here in the Real World” is regarded as one of Alan Jackson’s signature songs. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal and the authenticity of its message. The song continues to be celebrated for its honest portrayal of life’s challenges, and it remains a favorite among country music fans. Its legacy is reflected in its influence on future generations of country artists who admire Jackson’s storytelling prowess.
Conclusion
“Here in the Real World” remains a poignant and powerful piece in Alan Jackson’s body of work. Its themes of realism and authenticity continue to resonate with listeners, making it a timeless classic in country music. I encourage you to explore Alan Jackson’s discography further to appreciate the depth and breadth of his contributions to the genre.
Video
Lyrics
(Alan Jackson – Mark Irwin)
Cowboys don’t cry and heroes don’t die.
And good always wins again and again.
And love is a sweet dream that always comes true
Oh, if life were like the movies, I’d never be blue.
But here in the real world it’s not that easy at all,
‘Cause when hearts get broken it’s real tears that fall.
And darlin’, it’s sad but true but the one thing I’ve learned from you,
Is how the boy don’t always get the girl here in the real world.
— Instrumental —
I gave you my love but that wasn’t enough,
To hold your heart when times got rough.
And tonight on that silver screen it’ll end like it should,
Two lovers will make it through like I hoped we would.
But here in the real world it’s not that easy at all,
‘Cause when hearts get broken it’s real tears that fall.
And darlin’, it’s sad but true but the one thing I’ve learned from you,
Is how the boy don’t always get the girl here in the real world.
How the boys don’t always get the girl here in the real world…