Introduction
“Chasin’ That Neon Rainbow” is a semi-autobiographical song by American country music artist Alan Jackson, co-written with Jim McBride. Released in September 1990 as the fourth single from his debut album, Here in the Real World, the song captures Jackson’s early aspirations and experiences as a budding musician.
The narrative delves into Jackson’s formative years, influenced by his family’s musical inclinations. He reminisces about a radio his father won, which introduced him to country music, and his mother’s harmonizing, nurturing his passion for the genre. The lyrics chronicle his journey from humble beginnings, performing in local venues, to his relentless pursuit of stardom, symbolized by the “neon rainbow” of vibrant city lights.
The song’s authenticity is rooted in Jackson’s personal experiences. In collaboration with McBride, they encapsulated the challenges and dreams of an artist striving for recognition. McBride recounted that during their initial songwriting session, Jackson shared stories of his struggles on the road, which resonated with McBride’s long-held song idea titled “Chasin’ That Neon Rainbow.” This synergy led to the creation of a track that authentically portrays the life of an aspiring musician.
Musically, the song features traditional country instrumentation, including prominent steel guitar and fiddle, complementing Jackson’s smooth vocals. This blend of heartfelt storytelling and classic country sound contributed to its commercial success. “Chasin’ That Neon Rainbow” peaked at number 2 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart and reached number 5 on the Canadian RPM Country Tracks chart, solidifying Jackson’s presence in the country music scene.
The accompanying music video, directed by Jack Cole, further illustrates Jackson’s narrative by depicting his audition at a bar, underscoring the song’s themes of ambition and perseverance.
Overall, “Chasin’ That Neon Rainbow” stands as a testament to Alan Jackson’s dedication to his craft and his ability to translate personal history into relatable art, resonating with audiences who share similar dreams and challenges.