🎙️ The Hidden Influence Behind Alan Jackson’s Boldest CMA Moment — And Why “It Must Be Love” Still Stands Out
There’s a strange kind of poetry in the fact that Alan Jackson’s biggest CMA Awards controversy is what most people remember about Under the Influence, his 1999 covers album.
That moment? Jackson abruptly stopped mid-performance at the Grand Ole Opry, cutting short “Pop a Top” and switching to George Jones’ “Choices” — a rebellious nod to a legend who wasn’t allowed to sing it live on TV.
It was Jackson’s way of taking a stand. But if you dive into the album itself, you’ll find a quieter, more revealing story — one that explains where Jackson’s true musical soul comes from.
Don Williams > George Jones?
While George Jones was Jackson’s public inspiration, Don Williams may have been his true blueprint. The soft-spoken delivery, the emotional restraint, the way the songs never begged for attention but earned it — all of that is pure Don.
You can hear it throughout Under the Influence. Jackson leans into that gentle steadiness, even when the emotions run deep. And in some moments, it feels like he’s testing the edges of that template — not breaking it, but stretching it just enough to make it his own.
The Track That Says It All
🎧 “It Must Be Love” is the one that hits closest to Jackson’s essence. His version doesn’t scream. It glows. And even when he wrestles a bit with tempo on the verses, there’s something incredibly human about the way he tries to balance rhythm and raw emotion.
It’s not just a remake — it’s a quiet statement.
Final verdict: “It Must Be Love” gets a solid B+.
Not because it’s flashy, but because it’s honest. Just like Jackson at his best.
