Introduction
Alan Jackson’s “Remember When” (official HD video) stands as one of country music’s most poignant love songs—an autobiographical ode to his life and marriage. Written and recorded by Jackson, it was released on October 27, 2003, as the second and final single from his Greatest Hits Volume II compilation album.
Musically rooted in traditional country, the song opens with a gentle acoustic guitar and mandolin, gradually layering soft percussion, steel guitar, and strings to create a warm, reflective soundscape that perfectly complements Jackson’s tender vocal delivery.
Lyrically, “Remember When” traces the arc of Jackson’s lifelong relationship with his wife Denise—from their teenage meeting in Newnan, Georgia, through marriage in 1979, raising their three daughters, enduring a temporary separation, and ultimately reconciling to build a lasting family life together . The song’s verses lovingly recall key moments: falling in love, early marital struggles, the joyful chaos of little feet around the house, and looking ahead to growing old together.
The song resonated deeply with listeners and reached No. 1 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Country Songs chart for two weeks in February 2004, and climbed to No. 29 on the Billboard Hot 100—a notable feat for a traditional country ballad . It was certified 4× Platinum by the RIAA in May 2023 and received critical praise, with Billboard calling it “the most poignant, well written country song to hit the format in a long time” .
The music video, directed by Trey Fanjoy and premiered in January 2004, intertwines Jackson performing on a stool with home‑movie footage of his life and moments with Denise, reinforcing the song’s themes of memory and intimacy .
Since its release, “Remember When” has become a beloved fixture at weddings, anniversaries, and reflective moments—evoking shared history, enduring love, and the beauty found in life’s small, treasured instances .