Here In The Real World – Alan Jackson

Introduction

“Here in the Real World” marked a pivotal moment in Alan Jackson’s career, establishing him as a significant figure in country music. Co-written with Mark Irwin, the song was released on January 15, 1990, as the second single and title track from Jackson’s debut album, Here in the Real World . Its success was instrumental in launching Jackson’s career, especially after his first single, “Blue Blooded Woman,” failed to make a significant impact.

The song’s lyrics poignantly contrast the idealized portrayals of love in movies with the often harsher realities of real life, resonating with listeners through lines like, “But here in the real world, it’s not that easy at all.” This theme of confronting reality struck a chord with audiences, propelling the song to No. 3 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart and No. 1 on Canada’s RPM Top Country Tracks chart .

Critics praised the song for its authenticity and emotional depth. Kevin John Coyne of Country Universe awarded it an A grade, highlighting its “heartbroke sincerity” and the clever juxtaposition of reality and fiction . An uncredited review from Cash Box magazine also lauded Jackson’s neotraditionalist country sound and the song’s comforting lyrics .

The accompanying music video, directed by Jim May, complemented the song’s themes by featuring Jackson’s performance interspersed with a snippet of Gene Autry singing “Back in the Saddle Again” .

“Here in the Real World” not only solidified Alan Jackson’s place in the country music scene but also contributed to the resurgence of traditional country music in the early 1990s. Its enduring popularity is evidenced by covers from artists like Glen Campbell, George Jones, and Charley Pride .

Video

Lyrics:

“Here In The Real World”

Cowboys don’t cry, and heroes don’t die
Good always wins, again and again
And love is a sweet dream, that always comes true
Oh if life were like the movies, I’d never be blueBut here in the real world, it’s not that easy at all
‘Cause when hearts get broken, it’s real tears that fall
And darlin’ it’s sad but true, but the one thing I’ve learned from you
Is how the boy don’t always get the girl, here in the real world
I gave you my love, but that wasn’t enough
To hold your heart, when times got rough
And tonight on that silver screen, it’ll end like it should
Two lovers will make it through, like I hoped we would

But here in the real world, it’s not that easy at all
‘Cause when hearts get broken, it’s real tears that fall
And darlin’ it’s sad but true, but the one thing I’ve learned from you
Is how the boy don’t always get the girl, here in the real world