Introduction:
Country music fans were introduced to a new voice in 1990 with the release of “Here in the Real World,” the title track from Alan Jackson’s debut album. Jackson, a rising star from Newnan, Georgia, co-wrote the song with Mark Irwin, showcasing a talent for storytelling that would become a hallmark of his long and successful career.
“Here in the Real World” is a prime example of traditional country music. The instrumentation is simple and direct, featuring a prominent steel guitar alongside acoustic guitars and a steady drumbeat. Jackson’s vocals are clear and unvarnished, delivering the lyrics with a sincerity that resonates with listeners.
Thematically, the song deals with the harsh realities of love and loss. The narrator reflects on a failed relationship, contrasting the idealized world of dreams and fantasies with the “real world” where heartbreak is a painful consequence. The chorus emphasizes this central theme:
“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 darling 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.”
“Here in the Real World” was released in January of 1990 by Arista Records, marking the beginning of a long and fruitful partnership between Jackson and the label. The song quickly climbed the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart, reaching a peak position of number 3. It also achieved number 1 on the Canadian RPM Top Country Tracks chart, solidifying Jackson’s early success north of the border.
While not his first single (that honor goes to “Blue Blooded Woman”), “Here in the Real World” was a significant turning point in Jackson’s career. The song’s critical and commercial success helped establish him as a rising star within the country music industry. It also set the stage for the release of his debut album, which would go on to sell over two million copies and further solidify Jackson’s place in country music.
The legacy of “Here in the Real World” extends beyond its chart performance and sales figures. The song is considered a classic of the genre, a timeless ballad that continues to resonate with listeners today. It remains a staple of Jackson’s live performances and a beloved track among his vast fanbase. “Here in the Real World” not only introduced Alan Jackson to the world, but it also laid the foundation for a career that would span decades and earn him numerous accolades, including membership in the Country Music Hall of Fame.
Video:
Lyrics:
Cowboys don’t cry, and heroes don’t dieGood always wins, again and againAnd love is a sweet dream that always comes trueOh, if life were like the movies, I’d never be blueBut here in the real worldIt’s not that easy at all‘Cause when hearts get brokenIt’s real tears that fallAnd darlin’ it’s sad but trueBut the one thing I’ve learned from youIs how the boy don’t always get the girlHere in the real worldI gave you my love, but that wasn’t enoughTo hold your heart, when times got roughAnd tonight on that silver screenIt’ll end like it shouldTwo lovers will make it throughLike I hoped we wouldBut here in the real worldIt’s not that easy at all‘Cause when hearts get brokenIt’s real tears that fallAnd darlin’ it’s sad but trueBut the one thing I’ve learned from youIs how the boy don’t always get the girlHere in the real worldNo, the boy don’t always get the girlHere in the real world