About the song
Alan Jackson – Midnight in Montgomery: An Introduction
“Midnight in Montgomery” is a hauntingly beautiful country ballad performed by Alan Jackson, one of the most successful country music artists of all time. The song was released in 1991 as the fourth single from Jackson’s second studio album, “Don’t Rock the Jukebox”.
The lyrics paint a vivid picture of Montgomery, Alabama at midnight. Jackson’s smooth, easygoing vocals are accompanied by a gentle guitar melody, creating a relaxing and nostalgic atmosphere.
The song’s evocative imagery is particularly striking, with lines like:
- “Silver eagle, lonely road”
- “Just a minute to see a friend”
- “Hear that whippoorwill”
- “See the stars light up the purple sky”
- “Smell whiskey in the air”
“Midnight in Montgomery” is not just a song about a city, however; it is also a song about loneliness and longing. Jackson weaves these themes into the lyrics with masterful subtlety, creating a deeply moving and relatable listening experience.
The song was met with widespread critical acclaim and commercial success. It reached number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart and was certified Gold by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).
“Midnight in Montgomery” is a classic country ballad that has become an enduring part of Alan Jackson’s musical legacy. The song is a testament to Jackson’s talent for crafting and performing heartfelt country music.
Here are some of the reasons why “Midnight in Montgomery” is such a special song:
- Poetic and evocative lyrics: Jackson uses vivid imagery and language to paint a striking picture of Montgomery at night.
- Alan Jackson’s emotive vocals: Jackson’s warm and expressive vocals add depth and feeling to the song.
- Soothing and gentle melody: The song’s slow tempo and gentle instrumentation create a relaxing and calming atmosphere.
- Deep and moving themes: The song explores themes of loneliness, longing, and connection in a way that is both relatable and thought-provoking.
“Midnight in Montgomery” is a beautiful song that is perfect for fans of country music and anyone who appreciates a good ballad. It is a song that will stay with you long after you hear it.
Video
Lyrics
Midnight in MontgomerySilver eagle, lonely RoadWas on my way to MobileFor a big New Year’s Eve showAnd stopped for just a minuteTo see a friend outside of townWith my collar up, I found his nameAnd felt the wind die downAnd a drunk man in a cowboy hatTook me by surpriseWearin’ shiny boots, a nudie suit, and haunted, haunted eyesHe said, “Friend, it’s good to see youIt’s nice to know you care”Then the wind picked up, he was goneWas he ever really there?‘Cause it’s midnight in MontgomeryJust hear that whip-poor-willSee the stars light up the purple skyFeel that lonesome chill‘Cause when the wind is rightYou’ll hear his songSmell whisky in the airMidnight in MontgomeryHe’s always singin’ thereWell, I climbed back on that eagleTook one last look aroundRed tail lights, shadow moves slow across the groundAnd off somewhere a midnight train is slowly passin’ byI can hear that wistle moan’I’m so lonesome, I could cry‘Cause it’s midnight in MontgomeryJust hear that whip-poor-willSee the stars light up the purple skyFeel that lonesome chill‘Cause when the wind is rightYou’ll hear his songSmell whisky in the airMidnight in MontgomeryHe’s always singin’ thereHe’s always singin’ thereWell, Hank’s always singin’ there