Introduction
“The Blues Man,” a track on Alan Jackson’s 1999 album “Under The Influence,” isn’t an original song by Jackson himself. It’s a homage to the legacy of blues music and the artists who poured their heart and soul into the genre.
The songwriter behind “The Blues Man” is none other than Hank Williams Jr., son of country music legend Hank Williams. This adds another layer of tribute, as both Williams Sr. and Jr. were heavily influenced by the blues.
Jackson’s rendition of “The Blues Man” stays true to the song’s roots. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a blues musician, a “natural born guitar ringer” who finds solace and expression in soulful melodies. There’s a sense of admiration for this artist, someone who keeps the tradition of the blues alive through their heartfelt playing and melancholic songs.
While the exact inspiration for the song remains unknown, it likely celebrates the enduring power of the blues genre. The blues, with its focus on hardship and emotional expression, has influenced countless musicians across genres, including country. “The Blues Man” feels like a nod to those roots, acknowledging the debt that country music owes to the blues.
When you listen to Alan Jackson’s “The Blues Man,” expect a dose of soulful country with a deep appreciation for the musical heritage it carries. The song is a celebration of the blues, the storyteller with a guitar, and the enduring power of music that speaks to the heart.