Alan Jackson, a name synonymous with authentic country music, has consistently touched hearts with his sincere storytelling and relatable tunes. While celebrated for his honky-tonk anthems and ballads of love and life, another significant facet of Jackson’s musical journey lies in his profound connection to gospel music. This connection is beautifully showcased in his album, Precious Memories Volume II, a heartfelt collection of traditional hymns that revisits the songs that shaped his childhood.
For Alan Jackson, gospel songs are more than just melodies; they are echoes of his upbringing, resonating with the faith and values instilled in him from a young age. Growing up in Newnan, Georgia, church was a cornerstone of family life. Like many children, young Alan might have occasionally fidgeted in the pews, but the hymns sung within those church walls left an indelible mark on his soul. These early experiences laid the foundation for his deep appreciation of gospel music, which would later find expression in his career.
Precious Memories Volume II is a testament to this enduring appreciation. Released as a follow-up to the double-platinum success of Precious Memories in 2006, this second volume further delves into the rich tapestry of traditional hymns that are deeply meaningful to Jackson. The inception of the first Precious Memories album was remarkably personal. It began as a Christmas gift for his mother, a gesture of love and remembrance, with no initial intention for commercial release. However, the sincerity and heartfelt delivery of these classic hymns resonated deeply with a record executive who recognized the album’s potential to touch a wider audience.
The unexpected success of the first volume paved the way for Precious Memories Volume II. Alan Jackson, reflecting on the initial album’s reception, acknowledges the gentle encouragement from his wife, Denise. Her intuition that authentic renditions of beloved church hymns would find a receptive audience proved correct. The charm of Precious Memories lay in its unpretentious nature, a simple and honest expression of faith through song, a quality that Jackson and producer Keith Stegall aimed to recapture in the second volume.
Stegall, a longtime friend and collaborator, returned to produce Precious Memories Volume II, ensuring the album maintained the same heartfelt spirit as its predecessor. The album opens with a breathtaking rendition of “Amazing Grace,” a hymn instantly recognizable and deeply moving. The tracklist is a carefully curated selection of timeless gems, including “Just As I Am,” “Love Lifted Me,” “There Is Power in the Blood,” “When the Roll Is Called Up Yonder,” and “Wherever He Leads I’ll Go.” These are not just songs; they are pillars of gospel music tradition, carrying messages of faith, redemption, and hope that have resonated through generations.
The visual aspect of this gospel project was kept deliberately understated, mirroring the music’s sincerity. When discussing the music videos for “Amazing Grace” and “Precious Memories,” Jackson emphasized the simplicity of the concept: “There ain’t no concept. We’re just up there singing it.” This straightforward approach underscored the focus on the music itself, devoid of elaborate production or theatrics, allowing the hymns’ messages to shine through.
While the first Precious Memories album was supported by a live concert DVD filmed at the historic Ryman Auditorium, Jackson initially hesitated to replicate that format for the second volume. He was concerned that another televised performance might appear to be commercially motivated, overshadowing the genuine intent behind the music. His priority was to ensure the focus remained on the hymns and their spiritual message, rather than album sales.
Selecting the songs for Precious Memories Volume II was a collaborative and personal process for Alan and Denise Jackson. They revisited an old Baptist hymnal, much like they had done for the first album, leafing through its pages and reminiscing about hymns that held special meaning. Some songs initially considered for the first volume, but ultimately left out, found their place on this second collection. The selection process involved careful consideration to create a cohesive and meaningful listening experience.
Despite its iconic status and widespread appeal, Alan Jackson initially hesitated to record “Amazing Grace.” He felt the hymn had been covered extensively by other artists. However, Denise’s strong affinity for the song and her desire to include it on the album ultimately convinced him. After recording it, “Amazing Grace” became one of his personal favorites on Precious Memories Volume II, a testament to the enduring power of this timeless hymn.
Choosing the Ryman Auditorium as the location to film the “Amazing Grace” music video was a natural and symbolic choice. Jackson eloquently describes the Ryman as a venue steeped in history, particularly for gospel and country music. Originally built as a church, the Ryman’s very foundations are rooted in faith. Its evolution into the “Mother Church of Country Music” adds another layer of significance, making it a uniquely fitting setting for these gospel performances. Jackson acknowledges the distinct feeling of performing at the Ryman, sensing the echoes of countless artists and spiritual gatherings that have graced its stage.
Church and faith have been constants throughout Alan Jackson’s life. While childhood church attendance might have felt obligatory at times, the music resonated deeply, particularly the sound of the pipe organ. This early exposure to church music sparked a lifelong appreciation. As he grew older, Jackson participated in children’s choir and later in the church choir as a teenager, experiences that subtly nurtured his vocal talent and stage presence.
Even with the demands of a touring career that often took him away on weekends, Alan and Denise Jackson prioritized church as part of their family life, raising their daughters Mattie, Ali, and Dani in faith. They attend a Baptist church that incorporates contemporary Christian music alongside traditional hymns, reflecting a blend of musical styles. However, Jackson expresses a particular fondness for the “old hymns” and the sound of the organ, highlighting his deep-rooted connection to traditional gospel music.
Faith played an especially crucial role during Denise Jackson’s battle with colorectal cancer two years prior to the album’s release. This challenging period underscored the importance of faith and family in their lives. With Denise’s health restored and ongoing check-ups showing positive results, these were indeed “precious memories” in the making, a time of gratitude and reflection.
Reflecting on influential figures in his life, Jackson acknowledges his father’s quiet strength and profound impact. However, he also recognizes Denise’s resilience and unwavering spirit as equally, if not more, influential. Having witnessed her strength through life’s challenges, including her health journey, he places her at the pinnacle of those who have shaped his life.
As the article concludes, it touches upon Alan Jackson’s family life, mentioning his daughters’ paths and milestones. Mattie’s move to Austin, Ali’s college studies, and Dani’s upcoming 16th birthday paint a picture of a family grounded in faith and love, navigating life’s journey together.
Ultimately, Precious Memories Volume II is more than just an album of gospel songs; it’s a reflection of Alan Jackson’s personal journey, his deep-seated faith, and his enduring connection to the hymns that have provided solace and inspiration throughout his life. It is a sincere offering of timeless gospel classics, delivered with the authenticity and heartfelt emotion that have made Alan Jackson a beloved figure in music. For fans of Alan Jackson and lovers of gospel music alike, Precious Memories Volume II is a cherished collection that resonates with faith, nostalgia, and the enduring power of song.
