Introduction
Alan Jackson’s “Remember When,” released on October 27, 2003, stands as a deeply personal and enduring piece in his musical repertoire. Featured as the second and final single from his compilation album Greatest Hits Volume II, the song achieved notable success, spending two weeks atop the U.S. Billboard Hot Country Songs chart in February 2004 and reaching number 29 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Written solely by Jackson, “Remember When” serves as a heartfelt reflection on his life with his wife, Denise. The lyrics chronicle their journey from youthful romance through the challenges and joys of raising their three daughters, culminating in a contemplation of growing old together. Jackson’s ability to translate personal experiences into universally relatable themes has resonated with many listeners, with numerous couples identifying the song as emblematic of their own relationships.
The song’s music video, directed by Trey Fanjoy, complements its introspective nature by featuring Jackson performing amidst home movie footage, including scenes of him dancing with Denise. This visual portrayal reinforces the song’s themes of enduring love and shared memories.
“Remember When” has garnered critical acclaim, with Billboard describing it as “the most poignant, well-written country song to hit the format in a long time.” Its enduring popularity underscores its significance in Jackson’s career and its impact on audiences who find solace and connection in its narrative.
As a testament to its lasting relevance, Jackson and Denise shared a poignant moment on stage during a 2025 performance, dancing together as he performed the song—a gesture that encapsulates the enduring love and memories that “Remember When” so eloquently captures.
Video
Lyrics:
Remember when I was young and so were you
And time stood still and love was all we knew
You were the first, so was I
We made love and then you cried
Remember when
Remember when we vowed the vows
And walked the walk
Gave our hearts, made the start, it was hard
We lived and learned, life threw curves
There was joy, there was hurt
Remember when
Remember when old ones died and new were born
And life was changed, disassembled, rearranged
We came together, fell apart
And broke each other’s hearts
Remember when
Remember when the sound of little feet
Was the music
We danced to week to week
Brought back the love, we found trust
Vowed we’d never give it up
Remember when
Remember when thirty seemed so old
Now lookn’ back it’s just a steppin’ stone
To where we are
Where we’ve been
Said we’d do it all again
Remember when
Remember when we said when we turned gray
When the children grow up and move away
We won’t be sad, we’ll be glad
For all the life we’ve had
And we’ll remember when