Introduction
“Remember When” is a poignant country ballad written and performed by Alan Jackson, released on October 27, 2003, as the second single from his compilation album Greatest Hits Volume II. The song achieved significant success, spending two weeks at number one on the U.S. Billboard Hot Country Songs chart in February 2004 and peaking at number 29 on the Billboard Hot 100.
The song serves as an autobiographical reflection of Jackson’s life with his wife, Denise. They met in 1976 at a Dairy Queen in their hometown of Newnan, Georgia, and married in 1979. The lyrics chronicle their journey from youthful romance through the challenges and joys of raising a family, encapsulating the enduring nature of their relationship.
Critically acclaimed for its heartfelt storytelling, “Remember When” has been described by Billboard as “the most poignant, well-written country song to hit the format in a long time.” The accompanying music video, directed by Trey Fanjoy, features Jackson performing the song interspersed with home movie footage, further emphasizing the personal nature of the song.
Over the years, “Remember When” has resonated with many couples, often being referred to as “our song” due to its universal themes of love, growth, and reflection. In a testament to its lasting impact, Jackson and Denise shared a heartfelt moment on stage during his “Last Call: One More for the Road” tour in April 2025, dancing together as he performed the song—a celebration of their decades-long journey together.
“Remember When” remains one of Alan Jackson’s most beloved tracks, capturing the essence of enduring love and the passage of time through its evocative lyrics and melody.