Some songs feel so timeless that every generation claims them as their own. “It Must Be Love” is one of those rare gems. Originally written and recorded by Don Williams in 1979, the song became a quiet anthem of devotion, carried by Williams’ gentle voice. Two decades later, Alan Jackson, already one of the biggest names in country music, decided to give the classic his own touch—and in doing so, he reintroduced its tender truth to a new generation of fans.
By the late 1990s, Jackson had already built his reputation as a storyteller for the working class, a man who could sing about everything from honky-tonks to family with sincerity. When he recorded “It Must Be Love” in 2000 for his album Under the Influence, it wasn’t just a cover. It was a heartfelt tribute to Don Williams, one of his musical heroes, and a chance to show that the simplest songs often hold the deepest truths.
The beauty of “It Must Be Love” lies in its simplicity. The lyrics don’t use grand metaphors or complicated poetry. Instead, they capture the everyday feeling of being in love—those moments when everything suddenly makes sense, when a simple glance or a quiet smile feels bigger than the world itself. When Alan sings it, his smooth, laid-back delivery turns the words into a warm embrace, reminding listeners that love doesn’t always need fireworks; sometimes it just needs honesty.
For older listeners, the song resonates even more. It reminds them of the early days of their own love stories, when everything felt new, surprising, and a little overwhelming. The song doesn’t describe a perfect fairy tale—it describes something real, familiar, and lasting.
Alan’s version of the song went straight to Number One on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart in 2000, proving that even in an era of changing country sounds, traditional ballads about love still had the power to move people. Fans heard not only a great cover but also Jackson’s deep respect for the music that shaped him.
That’s why “It Must Be Love” remains one of Alan Jackson’s most beloved recordings. It isn’t flashy or complicated—it’s honest. It’s the sound of a man in love, of a singer honoring his roots, and of a timeless truth that never fades. Through his voice, Alan reminded us that sometimes the most powerful songs are the simplest ones—songs that whisper straight to the heart.
