Introduction:
Alabama’s classic hit “Love in the First Degree”, released on October 2, 1981, marked the third single from their landmark album Feels So Right. Written by Jim Hurt and Tim DuBois, and brought to life under the guidance of producer Harold Shedd, the song blended polished pop sensibilities with the heart of country music—creating a radio-ready anthem that perfectly captured the era.
The track quickly soared to become Alabama’s fifth consecutive No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart, holding the top spot for two weeks as the year came to a close. Its appeal reached far beyond country audiences, peaking at No. 15 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 5 on the Adult Contemporary chart. North of the border, it claimed the No. 1 position on both Country and AC charts in Canada, cementing its international success.
But the song’s enduring power lies in more than just its chart performance. With its warm, early-’80s radio glow, clever courtroom metaphors transformed into heartfelt promises, and Alabama’s signature harmonies, the track became a defining moment in country music’s move into the mainstream.
For countless listeners, “Love in the First Degree” is more than a hit single—it’s a time capsule of winter nights in 1981, when the soft light of AM radio dials accompanied long drives and Alabama made heartache sound noble, hopeful, and unforgettable.