Alan Jackson – Once You’ve Had The Best

Introduction:

“Once You’ve Had The Best” is a poignant country ballad performed by Alan Jackson, showcasing his deep respect for the genre’s heritage and his ability to interpret classic material with authentic emotion. While many of Jackson’s hits are self-penned, this particular song holds a special place as a cover, paying homage to one of country music’s legendary figures.

• Year Released (Alan Jackson’s version): 1999
• Album: Under the Influence

Alan Jackson’s rendition of “Once You’ve Had The Best” was released in 1999 as part of his eighth studio album, Under the Influence. This album was a unique project in Jackson’s discography, as it consisted entirely of cover songs that paid tribute to the artists and songs that had profoundly influenced him throughout his career. By dedicating an entire album to these foundational tracks, Jackson underscored his unwavering commitment to traditional country music and his role as a torchbearer for the genre’s authentic sound. The original version of “Once You’ve Had The Best” was written and recorded by country outlaw Johnny Paycheck, who released it in 1973. It was notably a Top 5 hit for George Jones in late 1973, further cementing its status as a country classic before Jackson’s interpretation.

Genre:

“Once You’ve Had The Best” is a quintessential country ballad, a subgenre known for its emotional depth, narrative focus, and often melancholic themes. In the context of both Johnny Paycheck’s original and Alan Jackson’s cover, the song embodies several key characteristics of this style:

• Traditional Country Sound: The instrumentation on Jackson’s version adheres strictly to the classic country aesthetic. Listeners can expect to hear the mournful cries of the steel guitar, the gentle strumming of acoustic guitars, and a steady, understated rhythm section that supports the vocal narrative without overpowering it. This authentic arrangement is a hallmark of Jackson’s “neotraditionalist” approach, which prioritizes the timeless sounds of country music.
• Heartfelt Storytelling: The lyrics of “Once You’ve Had The Best” explore the profound and often painful experience of a love lost, particularly when that love was exceptionally good. The song delves into the idea that once you’ve experienced the pinnacle of affection and connection, anything less pales in comparison. This theme of enduring longing and the bittersweet memory of a perfect past is a recurring motif in country ballads, resonating deeply with listeners who have experienced similar emotional landscapes.
• Vocal Emotion and Sincerity: Alan Jackson’s vocal delivery on this track is a masterclass in understated emotion. He conveys the song’s sadness and resignation with a quiet sincerity that makes the lyrics feel deeply personal and relatable. His smooth, unadorned baritone is perfectly suited to the ballad format, allowing the raw emotion of the lyrics to shine through without any unnecessary vocal acrobatics. This genuine approach is a key reason for his enduring appeal and his ability to connect with a broad audience.

Achievements:

While “Once You’ve Had The Best” was not released as a standalone single by Alan Jackson, its inclusion on Under the Influence contributed significantly to the album’s overall success and reinforced Jackson’s artistic standing:

• Album Success: Under the Influence was a commercial success for Alan Jackson. It debuted at No. 2 on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart and No. 9 on the all-genre Billboard 200, demonstrating his consistent popularity. The album was certified Platinum by the RIAA, signifying sales of over one million units. This success underscored the enduring appeal of traditional country music when delivered by an artist of Jackson’s caliber.
• Tribute to Influences: By covering “Once You’ve Had The Best,” Jackson paid a direct and heartfelt tribute to Johnny Paycheck and, by extension, to George Jones, who had a major hit with the song. This act of homage not only honored his musical heroes but also introduced these classic songs to a new generation of country music fans, ensuring their continued relevance. This commitment to the genre’s roots is a significant part of Jackson’s legacy.
• Critical Acclaim for Authenticity: Under the Influence was widely praised by critics for its authenticity and Jackson’s unwavering dedication to traditional country sounds amidst a changing musical landscape. Tracks like “Once You’ve Had The Best” were highlighted as examples of Jackson’s ability to breathe new life into timeless material while staying true to its original spirit. This critical reception further solidified his reputation as a “neotraditionalist” and a guardian of country music’s heritage.
• Deepening Artistic Profile: For Alan Jackson, recording an album of covers allowed him to showcase a different facet of his artistry. It demonstrated his interpretive skills as a vocalist and his profound understanding of country music history. While he is celebrated for his songwriting, Under the Influence proved his ability to connect with and deliver songs written by others with the same depth and conviction as his own compositions.

In conclusion, Alan Jackson’s “Once You’ve Had The Best,” released in 1999 on the album Under the Influence, is a powerful country ballad that serves as a testament to his deep respect for country music’s traditions. As a cover of a classic Johnny Paycheck song (made famous by George Jones), it showcases Jackson’s authentic vocal delivery and his commitment to the genre’s storytelling roots. While not a single itself, its inclusion on a Platinum-selling, critically acclaimed album solidified its place as a significant track in Jackson’s career, highlighting his role in preserving and celebrating the enduring legacy of traditional country music.

Video:

Lyrics:

“Once You’ve Had The Best”