Introduction:
When one considers the landscape of contemporary country music over the past few decades, the name Alan Jackson invariably evokes a sense of authenticity, a steadfast adherence to traditional country sounds, and a remarkable ability to articulate the everyday experiences and emotions of ordinary people. His 1998 single, “This Time,” drawn from the album High Mileage, serves as a quintessential example of these enduring qualities, offering a narrative of romantic reaffirmation delivered with his signature understated charm and sincerity.
“This Time” is not a song of grand, dramatic gestures or overwrought declarations. Instead, it finds its considerable strength in its simplicity and its relatable portrayal of a love that has perhaps weathered some storms, or at the very least, been tested by the passage of time and the potential for complacency. The lyrical premise revolves around a protagonist who, it seems, has come to a renewed appreciation for his partner, perhaps after a period of taking the relationship for granted. There’s a palpable sense of resolve in the lyrics, a determination to cherish and nurture the love that exists, suggesting a moment of clarity and a commitment to making things right, or better, “this time.”
Musically, the track is classic Alan Jackson. It eschews the pop-leaning production that was already making significant inroads into Nashville at the time of its release. Instead, we are treated to the familiar and comforting sounds of fiddle and steel guitar, instruments that are foundational to traditional country music and which Jackson has always championed. The melody is straightforward and memorable, providing a perfect vehicle for the song’s heartfelt message. Jackson’s vocal delivery is, as ever, direct and unpretentious. There’s a warmth and a lived-in quality to his baritone that lends an inherent believability to the sentiments he expresses. He isn’t trying to impress with vocal pyrotechnics; rather, he sings with an everyman quality that allows the listener to connect immediately with the song’s emotional core.
What makes “This Time” resonate, particularly with a more mature audience, is its inherent honesty. It acknowledges that relationships require effort and conscious appreciation. The song doesn’t paint an unrealistic picture of perpetual bliss, but rather one of enduring commitment and the willingness to reinvest in what truly matters. It speaks to the quiet victories of long-term partnerships, the recognition of value, and the conscious decision to prioritize love. In a world often clamoring with noise and superficiality, Alan Jackson’s “This Time” offers a moment of genuine reflection on the steadfast power of love and the importance of cherishing those we hold dear, a theme that remains timeless and deeply resonant. It’s a gentle reminder, set to a familiar country rhythm, of the grace found in second chances and renewed devotion within a lasting bond.