Introduction
Growing up in a small town, I remember my father spinning old vinyl records on lazy Sunday afternoons, filling our home with the warm twang of country music. One song that always stood out was Alan Jackson’s “A Woman’s Love”—its gentle melody and heartfelt lyrics seemed to linger in the air long after the needle lifted. Years later, I discovered that this piece, penned and performed by Jackson himself, held a special place in his career, evolving over time like a cherished memory revisited. It’s a song that speaks to the quiet power of love, and its journey from a B-side to a re-recorded single offers a fascinating glimpse into the heart of a country legend.
About The Composition
- Title: A Woman’s Love
- Composer: Alan Jackson
- Premiere Date: Originally recorded in 1998; re-recorded version released as a single in January 2007
- Album/Opus/Collection: High Mileage (1998) and Like Red on a Rose (2006)
- Genre: Country (Contemporary Country with traditional influences)
Background
“A Woman’s Love” was first brought to life by Alan Jackson for his 1998 album High Mileage, where it served as the B-side to the single “Right on the Money.” At the time, it was a understated gem in his repertoire, overshadowed by the album’s more prominent tracks. However, Jackson saw untapped potential in the song, leading him to revisit it nearly a decade later for his 2006 album Like Red on a Rose. Produced by Alison Krauss, this re-recording transformed the piece into a standalone single, released in January 2007. The song reflects Jackson’s signature blend of personal storytelling and universal emotion, exploring a man’s introspections on the depth and meaning of a woman’s love. Its re-emergence marked a shift in Jackson’s career toward a softer, more reflective sound, and it was warmly received by critics and fans alike, with Billboard praising its romantic warmth and Jackson’s tender delivery. Within his extensive catalog, “A Woman’s Love” stands as a testament to his ability to evolve while staying rooted in country traditions.
Musical Style
The musical style of “A Woman’s Love” is quintessentially country, with a smooth, understated elegance that defines Jackson’s later work. The original 1998 version leaned on classic country instrumentation—think steel guitars and a steady, unhurried rhythm—while the 2007 re-recording introduced twin electric guitars played by Ron Block, adding a subtle modern edge. The structure is simple yet effective, built around a verse-chorus framework that lets Jackson’s rich baritone take center stage. The production, helmed by Alison Krauss for the later version, is polished yet restrained, allowing the song’s emotional core to shine through. The interplay of the guitars with Jackson’s vocals creates a layered texture that feels both intimate and expansive, amplifying the song’s reflective mood. It’s a masterclass in how minimalism can pack a powerful punch, drawing listeners into its quiet sincerity.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrics of “A Woman’s Love” are a heartfelt meditation on love’s enduring presence, written by Jackson himself. Lines like “A woman’s love can lift you up / And lead you on to a better day” weave a narrative of devotion and gratitude, painting love as both a grounding force and a source of inspiration. The themes revolve around appreciation for a partner’s unwavering support, delivered with a simplicity that mirrors the song’s musical arrangement. There’s no grand drama here—just an honest, lived-in portrayal of a man cherishing the woman by his side. The lyrics marry seamlessly with the melody, their straightforward poetry enhancing the song’s warmth and relatability, making it feel like a conversation set to music.
Performance History
While the 1998 version of “A Woman’s Love” didn’t see a standalone release, its inclusion on High Mileage endeared it to fans of Jackson’s traditional country sound. The 2007 re-recording, however, brought it into the spotlight as a single, peaking at number 2 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Country Songs chart—a testament to its resonance with audiences. Critics lauded its reimagined form, with Deborah Evans Price of Billboard calling it “beautifully performed and written,” and Kevin John Coyne of Country Universe noting Jackson’s renewed commitment to the piece. Over time, it has become a staple in Jackson’s live performances, often met with a nostalgic appreciation that underscores its staying power in the country music canon.
Cultural Impact
“A Woman’s Love” may not have sparked a cultural revolution, but its influence lies in its quiet authenticity—a hallmark of Jackson’s contribution to country music. It’s a song that resonates with listeners who value love’s understated strength, finding its way into wedding playlists and romantic dedications. Beyond music, its themes echo in the broader cultural narrative of country as a genre that celebrates life’s simple truths. While it hasn’t been widely adapted into other media, its presence in Jackson’s discography reinforces his role as a storyteller for the everyman, bridging generational divides with its timeless message.
Legacy
The enduring importance of “A Woman’s Love” lies in its ability to evolve with Jackson himself—from a hidden track to a celebrated single, it mirrors his growth as an artist. Today, it remains relevant as a reminder of love’s quiet power, touching audiences with its sincerity in an era often dominated by flashier fare. For performers, it offers a showcase for vocal and emotional depth, while for listeners, it’s a comforting embrace in song form. Its legacy is one of understated beauty, proving that sometimes the softest notes leave the deepest impressions.
Conclusion
To me, “A Woman’s Love” is like a warm memory set to music—a song that feels personal yet universal, much like the Sundays I spent listening to my father’s records. It’s a piece that invites you to slow down and listen, to feel the weight of its words and the gentleness of its melody. I encourage you to explore it for yourself—try the 2007 version from Like Red on a Rose for its refined polish, or seek out a live performance to catch Jackson’s raw connection to the song. Whatever you choose, let it remind you of the beauty in life’s quiet moments. What’s your take on it? I’d love to hear how it strikes you
Video
Lyrics
I have felt it
And I have held it
I have known
A woman’s love
And I have tasted
And I have wasted
A woman’s love
And I know
I know I’ll never understand
All the little things that make it grand
A woman’s love
And I know
I’ll never come face to face
With anything that takes the place
Of a woman’s love
Well, I have kiss it
Tried to resist it
I have missed
A woman’s love
And I have hated
Taken for granted
A woman’s love
And I know
I know I’ll never understand
The little things that make it grand
A woman’s love
And I know
I’ll never come face to face
With anything that takes the place
Of a woman’s love
Well, I have needed
And I have pleaded
And I have lost
A woman’s love
And I have worshipped
And I have cursed it
A woman’s love
And I know
I know I’ll never understand
All the little things that make it grand
A woman’s love
And I know
I know I’ll never come face to face
With anything that takes the place
Of a woman’s love
And I know
I know I’ll never come face to face
With anything that takes the place
Of a woman’s love