Introduction:
In the year 2000, country music icon Alan Jackson released his critically acclaimed album Under the Influence. This studio effort, a collection of covers paying homage to artists who inspired Jackson’s own sound, became a commercial and critical darling. It debuted at number one on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart and remained there for a staggering four weeks. One of the album’s standout tracks, a song that propelled itself to the top of the charts and solidified Jackson’s status as a country music powerhouse, was his rendition of “It Must Be Love”.
Originally written by songwriter Bob McDill, “It Must Be Love” first found its voice in 1979 when it was released by country artist Don Williams. Williams’ version, characterized by his smooth baritone and a classic country arrangement, resonated with audiences and became his ninth number-one single on the U.S. Billboard Hot Country Singles charts. The song’s simple yet evocative lyrics explored the undeniable pull of love, painting a picture of a love so strong it could only be described as fate.
Jackson, known for his traditional country sound and his ability to deliver heartfelt emotion in his vocals, approached the song with reverence while infusing it with his own signature style. Produced by Keith Stegall, a frequent collaborator who understood Jackson’s artistic vision, the track retained the essence of McDill’s original composition. Jackson’s interpretation, however, brought a renewed energy and a touch of modern country polish. The result was a captivating rendition that resonated with both longtime fans of the song and a new generation of listeners.
“It Must Be Love” proved to be a powerful force on the charts, mirroring the success of Williams’ original version. Jackson’s cover reached number one on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, a testament to his ability to breathe new life into a classic. It also achieved a level of crossover success, reaching number 37 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, showcasing the song’s universal appeal and Jackson’s ability to connect with a broader audience. The track’s enduring popularity cemented its place in Jackson’s extensive catalog and solidified his reputation as an artist who could masterfully reinterpret songs while staying true to his own artistic identity.