Introduction
“Pop A Top,” a song synonymous with Alan Jackson’s signature neotraditional country sound, has a surprising twist in its origin story. Originally written by songwriting trio Jim Ed Brown, Nat Stuckey, and Benny Birchfield, the song first rose to fame in 1967 as a hit for Jim Ed Brown. Brown’s version, a catchy, lighthearted tune about drowning sorrows in a bar, climbed the Billboard country charts, peaking at number 3.
Fast forward over three decades. Alan Jackson, known for his embrace of classic country sounds, decided to revisit “Pop A Top” for his 1999 album “Under the Influence.” Jackson’s rendition, while retaining the core themes of heartbreak and seeking solace, injects a touch of melancholy. The steel guitar twang and Jackson’s signature baritone lend a deeper emotional weight to the lyrics, transforming the lighthearted honky-tonk original into a poignant reflection on lost love.
Jackson’s version of “Pop A Top” was released as the album’s lead single and charted on the U.S. Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks. While not replicating the chart success of Brown’s original, it solidified the song’s place in country music history and showcased Jackson’s talent for breathing new life into classic tunes.
So, as you hear the familiar opening line, “Pop a top, again,” remember the dual legacy of this captivating song. It’s a testament to the enduring power of great songwriting and a showcase of Alan Jackson’s artistry in reinterpreting a country music gem.