Introduction
Reflecting on the evolution of country music, I recall a time when the genre was predominantly associated with its Southern roots. However, as the 1990s progressed, country music began to transcend regional boundaries, attracting artists from diverse backgrounds. Alan Jackson’s “Gone Country” encapsulates this phenomenon, offering a narrative that resonates with the genre’s expanding appeal.
About The Composition
- Title: Gone Country
- Composer: Bob McDill
- Premiere Date: November 15, 1994
- Album: Who I Am
- Genre: Country, Country Rock
Background
Written by esteemed songwriter Bob McDill, “Gone Country” was recorded by Alan Jackson and released as the third single from his album “Who I Am” in 1994. The song provides a commentary on the country music scene of the time, highlighting individuals from various musical backgrounds—such as a lounge singer from Las Vegas, a folk rocker from Greenwich Village, and a classically trained composer from Los Angeles—who turn to country music as their original careers wane. Jackson expressed his admiration for the song, stating, “When I first heard this song I fell in love with it. I wish that I’d written it cause it says a lot of things that I’d like to say.”
Musical Style
“Gone Country” is characterized by its blend of traditional country elements with a rock influence, a hallmark of the country rock subgenre. The song features prominent electric guitar riffs, a steady drumbeat, and Jackson’s signature smooth vocals. The arrangement complements the narrative, with dynamic shifts that underscore the transitions of the characters depicted in the lyrics.
Lyrics
The lyrics of “Gone Country” tell the stories of three individuals from different musical spheres who, facing diminishing success, decide to embrace country music. Each verse delves into their backgrounds and motivations, culminating in the chorus that signifies their shift to the country genre. The song serves as a reflection on the widespread acceptance and appeal of country music during the 1990s.
Performance History
Upon its release, “Gone Country” quickly ascended the charts, reaching the number one spot on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks. The accompanying music video, directed by Michael Oblowitz, was filmed across various locations including New York City, Knoxville, and Las Vegas, featuring concert scenes that captured the song’s energetic vibe.
Cultural Impact
“Gone Country” resonated with audiences as it highlighted the genre’s growing mainstream appeal and the influx of artists from diverse musical backgrounds. The song’s narrative mirrored real-life trends in the music industry, contributing to discussions about the evolving identity of country music.
Legacy
Decades after its release, “Gone Country” remains a significant work in Alan Jackson’s repertoire and in the country music canon. Its commentary on the genre’s expansion continues to be relevant, reflecting ongoing discussions about authenticity and evolution in country music.
Conclusion
“Gone Country” offers a compelling narrative set to a dynamic musical arrangement, capturing a pivotal moment in country music history. For those interested in exploring this piece further, Alan Jackson’s performance on “The Greatest Hits Collection” provides an excellent rendition that showcases the song’s enduring appeal
Video
Lyrics
She’s been playin’ in a room on the strip for ten years in Vegas
Every night she looks in the mirror and she only ages
She’s been readin’ about Nashville and all the records that everybody’s buyin’
Says, “I’m a simple girl myself, grew up on Long Island”
So she packs her bags to try her hand
Says this might be my last chance
She’s gone country, look at them boots
She’s gone country, back to her roots
She’s gone country, a new kind of suit
She’s gone country, here she comes
Well, the folk scene’s dead, but he’s holdin’ out in the Village
He’s been writin’ songs, speakin’ out against wealth and privilege
He says, “I don’t believe in money, but a man could make him a killin’
‘Cause some of that stuff don’t sound much different than Dylan”
I hear down there it’s changed, you see
Well, they’re not as backward as they used to be
He’s gone country, look at them boots
He’s gone country, back to his roots
He’s gone country, a new kind of suit
He’s gone country, here he comes
He commutes to L.A., but he’s got a house in the Valley
But the bills are pilin’ up and the pop scene just ain’t on the rally
And he says, honey, I’m a serious composer, schooled in voice and composition
But with the crime and the smog these days, this ain’t no place for children
Lord, it sounds so easy, it shouldn’t take long
Be back in the money in no time at all
He’s gone country, look at them boots
He’s gone country, back to his roots
He’s gone country, a new kind of suit
He’s gone country, here he comes
Yeah, he’s gone country, a new kind of walk
He’s gone country, a new kind of talk
He’s gone country, look at them boots
He’s gone country, oh, back to his roots
He’s gone country
He’s gone country
Everybody’s gone country
Yeah, we’ve gone county
The whole world’s gone country