Introduction:
Country music icon Alan Jackson ushered in a new era with the release of “Pop A Top” in 1999. This track served as the lead single for his critically acclaimed album, Under the Influence. While Jackson was already a household name by this point in his career, “Pop A Top” marked a significant shift in sound and a return to his traditional country roots.
Jim Ed Brown originally released “Pop A Top” in 1967, achieving moderate success on the Billboard charts. However, Jackson’s rendition brought the song back into the spotlight, breathing new life into the classic. Produced by the legendary Keith Stegall, a longtime collaborator of Jackson’s, “Pop A Top” showcased the artist’s signature baritone vocals alongside a stripped-down, yet impactful instrumental arrangement. The song relied heavily on the melancholic twang of the steel guitar, a staple of traditional country music, alongside a driving rhythm section.
“Pop A Top” wasn’t a chart-topping juggernaut, but it resonated deeply with fans and critics alike. The song peaked at number 49 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart, a respectable showing but not Jackson’s most commercially successful single. However, its impact transcended chart positions. “Pop A Top” was praised for its raw emotion and relatable storytelling, a hallmark of Jackson’s songwriting. The lyrics paint a picture of a weary soul seeking solace at the bottom of a glass, masking heartbreak with a forced smile. The line, “Did you ever hear of a clown with tear drops streaming down his face?” perfectly encapsulates the song’s melancholic yet humorous tone.
“Pop A Top” served as a powerful statement of intent for Jackson’s Under the Influence album. The song’s success solidified his position as a champion of traditional country music at a time when the genre was experiencing a shift towards a more pop-influenced sound. “Pop A Top” didn’t win any major awards, but its influence on the genre and its enduring popularity amongst fans solidify its place as a modern country classic.