Introduction:
Chasin’ That Neon Rainbow, released in 1990, is a signature song by country music artist Alan Jackson. This energetic tune, brimming with aspiration and perseverance, is not only a cornerstone of Jackson’s early career but also a beloved anthem within the country music genre.
The song finds its home on Jackson’s debut studio album, Here in the Real World. Released in 1989, the album served as a launching pad for Jackson’s rise to country music stardom. While fellow musicians like Keith Stegall and Scott Hendricks played a role, Chasin’ That Neon Rainbow was co-written by Jackson himself alongside Jim McBride. This collaborative effort resulted in a relatable and genuine portrayal of chasing dreams in the world of country music.
Chasin’ That Neon Rainbow isn’t just a catchy tune – it’s a lyrical journey that depicts the yearning for achievement and recognition. The song paints a vivid picture of a small-town dreamer, captivated by the allure of the music industry. The protagonist’s ambitions extend far beyond the confines of their ordinary life, and the lyrics resonate with anyone who has ever dreamt of a bigger stage.
Following its release in 1990, Chasin’ That Neon Rainbow garnered significant critical acclaim. Praised for its relatable themes and energetic delivery, the song propelled Jackson further into the spotlight. The track’s enduring popularity has secured its place as a country music classic, and it continues to be a staple on Jackson’s setlists to this day.
More than just a hit song, Chasin’ That Neon Rainbow is a cornerstone of Alan Jackson’s artistic identity. The song’s themes of ambition, small-town roots, and the pursuit of musical dreams resonate with listeners across generations. It’s a testament to the power of music to inspire and uplift, and it serves as a reminder that even the brightest stars once dreamt of chasing their own neon rainbow.
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Lyrics:
Daddy won a radio, he tuned it to a country showI was rocking in the cradle to the crying of a steel guitarMama used to sing to meShe taught me that sweet harmonyNow she worries ’cause she never thought I’d ever really take it this farSinging in the bars and chasing that neon rainbowLiving that honky-tonk dream‘Cause all I’ve ever wanted is to pick this guitar and singJust trying to be somebodyJust wanna be heard and seenI’m chasing that neon rainbowLiving that honky-tonk dreamAn atlas and a coffee cupFive pickers in an old Dodge truckHeading down to Houston for a show on Saturday nightWell, his overhead is killing me, half the time I sing for freeWhen the crowd’s into it, lord it makes this thing I’m doing seem rightStanding in the spotlight and chasing that neon rainbowI’m-a living that honky-tonk dream‘Cause all I’ve ever wanted is to pick this guitar and singJust trying to be somebodyJust wanna be heard and seenI’m chasing that neon rainbowLiving that honky-tonk dreamDaddy’s got a radioHe won it 30 years agoHe said, “Son I just know we’re going to hear you singing on it some day”Well, I made it up to Music RowLord, don’t the wheels turn slow?Still, I wouldn’t trade a minute and I wouldn’t have it any other wayJust show me to the stage, I’m chasing that neon rainbowI’m-a living that honky-tonk dream‘Cause all I’ve ever wanted is to pick this guitar and singJust trying to be somebodyJust wanna be heard and seenI’m chasing that neon rainbowLiving that honky-tonk dreamOh, I’m chasing that neon rainbowLiving that honky-tonk dream