Introduction
While you might hear the opening twang of a guitar and expect Alan Jackson’s signature vocals on “You’re Not Drinking Enough,” the song’s origins lie outside the world of country music. Originally written by Danny Kortchmar, the track first found fame as part of Don Henley’s 1984 solo album, “Building the Perfect Beast.”
Henley, known for his work with the Eagles, explored a rockier soundscape on this album, and “You’re Not Drinking Enough” fit the bill perfectly. The lyrics paint a picture of heartbreak and self-destruction, with the narrator urging a friend to drown their sorrows in alcohol. It’s a raw and cynical look at the aftermath of a relationship’s end.
So how did this rock anthem end up on an Alan Jackson album? Jackson’s 2001 release, “New Traditional,” featured a collection of covers, paying homage to classic songs and artists. Jackson’s version of “You’re Not Drinking Enough” strips away some of the rock elements, replacing them with a more traditional country sound. The steel guitar takes center stage, and Jackson’s voice delivers the lyrics with a blend of empathy and resignation.
Jackson’s cover recasts the song in a slightly different light. While the core message of heartbreak remains, the country instrumentation lends a touch of melancholy that perhaps resonates more deeply with fans of the genre. Whether you prefer the original rock version or Jackson’s country rendition, “You’re Not Drinking Enough” is a powerful exploration of loss and the lengths people go to in order to cope.