That’d Be Alright by Alan Jackson

Introduction:

Released in December 2002, “That’d Be Alright” is a contemplative country ballad by iconic singer-songwriter Alan Jackson. The song finds Jackson reflecting on life’s modest desires and the hope for a better world, both on a personal and a universal level.

“That’d Be Alright” originated as a co-write between Tia Sillers, Tim Nichols, and Mark D. Sanders. Keith Stegall, a frequent collaborator with Jackson throughout his career, took the helm as producer for the track. The song became the fourth and final single released from Jackson’s critically acclaimed album, Drive, which debuted in September 2002.

While “That’d Be Alright” wasn’t a chart-topping hit, reaching number 23 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart, it resonated with fans and critics alike. The song’s simple message of finding contentment in life’s basic necessities and yearning for a fairer world struck a chord with listeners. It became a staple on Jackson’s concert tours and a fan favorite, solidifying its place within his extensive discography.

Musically, “That’d Be Alright” embodies the classic country sound that Jackson helped popularize. Acoustic guitar sets the foundation for the song’s gentle melody, while a subtle steel guitar adds a touch of melancholic twang. Jackson’s signature baritone vocals deliver the lyrics with a heartfelt sincerity that underscores the song’s emotional core.

Lyrically, “That’d Be Alright” avoids grand pronouncements, focusing instead on understated desires. The opening verse paints a picture of a simple life: having enough food to eat, a job that provides, and the ability to face challenges with resilience. The chorus expands on this theme, expressing the hope for a world where everyone has a “lighter load to bear” and can share in a more abundant life.

“That’d Be Alright” stands as a testament to the enduring power of country music’s ability to connect with listeners through relatable themes and genuine emotion. The song’s enduring popularity speaks to its timeless message of finding contentment in life’s simple pleasures and striving for a better tomorrow.

Video:

Lyrics:

“That’d Be Alright”

If money grew on hackberry trees
If time wasn’t such a luxury
If love was lovesick over me
That’d be alrightIf I could keep the wind in my sails
Keep a hold of the tiger by the tail
A half a ham sandwich in my lunch pail
That’d be alright[Chorus]
Yeah, That’d be alright
That’d be alright
If everybody everywhere
had a lighter load to bear
And a little bigger piece of the pie
We’d be livin’ us a pretty good life
And that’d be alright

Go heavy on the good and light on the bad
A hair more happy and a shade less sad
Turn all that negative down just a tad
That’d be alright

If my dear ol’ dog never got old
If my family farm never got sold
If another bad joke never got told
That’d be alright

[Chorus x3]

That’d be alright
That’d be alright
Yeah, That’d be alright
That’d be alright….
That’d be alright