Introduction:
“I Love To Tell The Story” is a cherished hymn that has resonated deeply within Christian communities for over a century. While not originally an Alan Jackson song, his rendition brought a renewed appreciation for this timeless piece within the country gospel genre. Jackson’s version was released in 2006 as part of his first gospel album, “Precious Memories”. This album marked a significant moment in his career, showcasing his deep-rooted faith and love for traditional gospel music.
The song itself is a classic gospel hymn, characterized by its simple yet profound melody and heartfelt lyrics. The lyrics, penned by English evangelist Katherine Hankey in 1866 and later set to music by William G. Fischer in 1869, speak of the joy and fulfillment found in sharing the story of Jesus Christ and his love. Hankey wrote the poem after a period of serious illness, reflecting on the life of Jesus in two parts, from which the verses for this beloved hymn were later selected.
Alan Jackson’s decision to include “I Love To Tell The Story” on “Precious Memories” was a testament to his personal connection with the song and the genre. The album, “Precious Memories,” was a special project for Jackson, inspired by his mother’s favorite hymns and a song he recorded for his father-in-law’s funeral. It was a deeply personal and heartfelt collection, reflecting his upbringing and faith.
While “I Love To Tell The Story” as a standalone single by Alan Jackson did not achieve major chart success on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, the “Precious Memories” album itself was a significant achievement. It debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart and No. 4 on the all-genre Billboard 200 chart. This success underscored Jackson’s broad appeal and the enduring popularity of traditional gospel music. The album was also certified Platinum by the RIAA for selling over one million copies, a remarkable feat for a gospel album in the contemporary music landscape.
Beyond the commercial success of the album, Alan Jackson’s rendition of “I Love To Tell The Story” contributed to the song’s continued relevance and introduced it to a new generation of listeners within the country music audience. His straightforward and sincere delivery honored the traditional arrangement while imbuing it with his signature warm vocal style. This helped to bridge the gap between country and gospel music, two genres with deep historical and cultural ties.
Alan Jackson’s career is marked by numerous accolades in the country music world, including multiple Grammy Awards, Country Music Association (CMA) Awards, and Academy of Country Music (ACM) Awards. While “I Love To Tell The Story” and the “Precious Memories” album stand slightly apart from his mainstream country hits, they represent an important facet of his artistry and his connection to his faith. The album’s platinum certification and chart-topping performance on the country charts demonstrate the significant impact of this collection of hymns, including the enduring message of “I Love To Tell The Story.” The inclusion of this timeless hymn in his discography further solidified Alan Jackson’s position as a respected and versatile artist who is not afraid to share his personal beliefs through his music.