Alan Jackson – I Love To Tell The Story

Introduction:

Released in 2006 on the album “Precious Memories”, “I Love To Tell The Story” isn’t your typical country gospel song by Alan Jackson. While the song is deeply rooted in Christian faith and features soaring melodies often associated with the genre, it transcends these boundaries to become a universal anthem about the power of storytelling and the enduring strength of belief.

The origins of “I Love To Tell The Story” lie not with Jackson or any contemporary songwriter, but with 19th-century English evangelist Katherine Hankey. Originally a poem titled “Tell the Story of Jesus and His Love,” it was set to music by William G. Fischer in the late 1800s and became a beloved hymn within Christian circles. Jackson, known for his traditional country sound and his own deep faith, discovered the hymn and recognized its potential to resonate with a wider audience.

Producer Keith Stegall, who has collaborated with Jackson on numerous albums, helped shape the song for a country audience. While retaining the core message and melody of the original hymn, the production incorporated elements of classic country music, including a prominent piano and gentle acoustic guitar. Jackson’s signature baritone vocals delivered the lyrics with sincerity and conviction, transforming the hymn into a powerful country ballad.

“I Love To Tell The Story” peaked at number 14 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, solidifying Jackson’s status as a top-selling country artist. However, the song’s impact extended beyond the country music scene. Its message of faith, hope, and the importance of sharing stories resonated with listeners of all backgrounds, regardless of their religious beliefs. The song became a popular choice for weddings, church services, and other occasions where themes of love, hope, and inspiration are celebrated.

While rooted in Christian faith, “I Love To Tell The Story” transcends religious boundaries. The core message of the song – the power of storytelling, the importance of sharing what we believe in, and the enduring strength of hope – resonates with listeners of all faiths and backgrounds. It reminds us of the shared human experience of seeking meaning and connection, and the power of stories to inspire and uplift us.

“I Love To Tell The Story” isn’t just a catchy country tune; it’s an invitation to reflect on the stories that matter to you. As Alan Jackson’s voice carries you through the melody, remember, the stories we share, whether of faith, love, loss, or triumph, connect us and remind us of the beauty and complexity of the human experience. So, let this song inspire you to share your own story, embrace the power of belief, and find joy in the act of telling.

Video:

Lyrics:

I love to tell the story
Of unseen things above
Of Jesus and his glory
Of Jesus and his love

I love to tell the story
Because I know ’tis true
It satisfies my longings
As nothing else can do

I love to tell the story
‘Twill be my theme in glory
To tell the old, old story
Of Jesus and his love

I love to tell the story
For those who know it best
Seem hungering and thirsting
To hear it like the rest

And when, in scenes of glory
I sing the new, new song
‘Twill be the old, old story
That I have loved so long

I love to tell the story
‘Twill be my theme in glory
To tell the old, old story
Of Jesus and his love

To tell the old, old story
Of Jesus and his love