Introduction:
“I’ll Try” is a heartfelt country ballad written and performed by American country music artist Alan Jackson. Released on January 1, 1996, it served as the second single from his 1995 compilation album, The Greatest Hits Collection. The song showcases Jackson’s signature neotraditional country style and became his thirteenth number-one hit on the U.S. Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart.
Alan Jackson, born on October 17, 1958, in Newnan, Georgia, is renowned for blending traditional honky-tonk and mainstream country sounds, a style often referred to as neotraditional country. Throughout his career, Jackson has been celebrated for his authentic songwriting and genuine portrayal of everyday life and love.
The Greatest Hits Collection, released on October 24, 1995, is Jackson’s first compilation album, featuring hits from his initial four studio albums. Alongside these classics, the album introduced two new tracks: “Tall, Tall Trees” and “I’ll Try,” both of which ascended to number one on the Billboard country charts. The compilation not only peaked at number five on the U.S. Billboard 200 but also secured the top position on the Top Country Albums chart, marking Jackson’s third number-one country album. By October 2006, the album achieved 6× Platinum certification by the RIAA, underscoring its widespread acclaim and commercial success.
“I’ll Try” stands out as a sincere love ballad where the narrator acknowledges the challenges inherent in relationships and commits to doing his utmost to remain faithful and true. Jackson aimed to craft a realistic love song that avoided excessive sentimentality, focusing instead on genuine commitment. He expressed, “I wanted to write one that was realistic, what I call a realistic approach to a positive love song.”
Critically, “I’ll Try” was well-received for its honest portrayal of love. Deborah Evans Price of Billboard lauded the song, stating, “How refreshing—an honest love song. Instead of promising the moon and stars, Jackson has penned a song that simply says, ‘I’m not perfect, just another man/But I will give you all that I am.’ What more could a woman want?”
Upon its release, “I’ll Try” debuted at number 67 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks for the week of December 30, 1995. It swiftly climbed the charts, reaching the number one spot on March 9, 1996, and maintained a presence on the chart for a total of 20 weeks. In Canada, the song peaked at number five on the RPM Country Tracks chart, further cementing its popularity.
The song’s instrumentation features a blend of traditional country elements, with prominent piano accompaniments and gentle electric guitar tones, delivering a warm and polished sound. Jackson’s sincere vocal delivery enhances the song’s authenticity, resonating with listeners who appreciate genuine narratives about love’s complexities.
“I’ll Try” exemplifies Alan Jackson’s ability to convey relatable emotions through straightforward storytelling and traditional country melodies. The song’s success contributed to the enduring appeal of The Greatest Hits Collection, which remains a testament to Jackson’s influence in the country music genre. His commitment to authenticity and his knack for capturing the nuances of everyday life have solidified his status as one of country music’s most respected artists.
In summary, “I’ll Try” is a quintessential Alan Jackson song that reflects his dedication to traditional country music and honest songwriting. Its release in 1996 added another number-one hit to his impressive repertoire and showcased his talent for creating music that resonates deeply with audiences. The song’s inclusion in The Greatest Hits Collection not only introduced new material to fans but also reinforced Jackson’s legacy as a leading figure in country music during the 1990s and beyond.