Feel the Warmth of Country Romance: “It Must Be Love” by Alan Jackson (2000)
When it comes to modern country artists who have captured the essence of traditional American storytelling through song, few names stand taller than Alan Jackson. With a career spanning decades, his music has become a cornerstone for listeners who value genuine emotion, lyrical clarity, and timeless charm. Among his many hits, the 2000 release of “It Must Be Love” stands out as a joyful and heartfelt celebration of that indescribable feeling we’ve all encountered at one point or another—love in its purest form.
“It Must Be Love” was originally written and performed by the celebrated songwriter Don Williams in 1979, and when Alan Jackson chose to breathe new life into it, he did so with reverence and grace. Released on Jackson’s compilation album Under the Influence, the song marked a high point both commercially and artistically. The album itself is a collection of classic country covers, reflecting Jackson’s personal homage to the songs that shaped him—and perhaps no track on that album reflects this mission more fully than “It Must Be Love.”
What sets Jackson’s version apart is his effortless sincerity. He strips the song down to its emotional core, delivering each line with an understated warmth that speaks volumes. The arrangement is modest yet rich, driven by acoustic guitars, steel, and fiddle—hallmarks of the traditional country sound that Jackson has always championed. There’s an easygoing rhythm to it, perfect for a quiet afternoon drive or a reflective morning with a cup of coffee. More than anything, it captures a sense of wholesome optimism, something that remains deeply resonant in a world filled with constant noise.
Jackson’s performance is not overly dramatic or flashy; instead, it relies on his genuine vocal presence and storytelling ability. There’s an everyman quality to his delivery that makes the song all the more moving. It’s easy to understand why this track climbed to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart. It reminds us that love, in its most uncomplicated form, has the power to uplift, to soothe, and to bring joy—a message that’s eternally relevant.
Beyond the charts and accolades, “It Must Be Love” endures because it reflects something we all search for: a feeling that’s both tender and reassuring. Jackson’s rendition does more than honor a classic country song; it invites new generations to connect with timeless emotions.