On this day (August 22) in 1998, Jo Dee Messina reached the top of the Hot Country Songs chart with “I’m Alright.” It was the second single–and second No. 1–from her sophomore album of the same name. The RIAA has since certified it 2x Platinum, and it remains a favorite among generations of Messina’s fans.
Messina’s career took off relatively quickly after she released her self-titled debut album in 1996. The album peaked at No. 22 and produced a pair of top 10 singles–“Heads Carolina, Tails California” and “You’re not in Kansas Anymore.” Two years later, she returned with I’m Alright. After her Gold-selling debut, it feels like a stretch to call Messina’s sophomore outing her breakout LP. It was, however, the beginning of the most successful period of her career.
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Messina released nine consecutive top 10 hits between 1998 and 2001. Five of those reached No. 1. She had–and arguably still has–a knack for writing and selecting songs that resonate deeply with listeners.
Jo Dee Messina Gets Real with “I’m Alright”
Phil Vassar wrote “I’m Alright.” He likely based the song on his lived experience after moving to Nashville from Virginia. Jo Dee Messina could likely tell a very similar story about her early days in Music City. As a result, her delivery is exceptionally believable. While that certainly counts for something–as does the song’s unforgettable hook–it wasn’t the only thing that sent the song to No. 1 for three weeks.
“I’m Alright” is incredibly relatable. Country music is full of songs about romantic and familial relationships. There are few songs about friendship, though. The lyrics from this hit come from the perspective of someone who is catching up with an old friend after a long separation.
[RELATED: Diane Warren Inspired What Became One of Jo Dee Messina’s Biggest Hits]
The final verse hits home for countless adults. These two old friends enjoy an evening of catching up. However, they know they’re probably going to lose touch again. There’s no intention to do so, but life happens. Time and obligations have a way of getting in the way of old friendships, especially when geographical distance is also a factor. Most of us have been there, but we’re still doing alright.
Featured Image by Frank Micelotta Archive/Getty Images
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