Introduction
“She Just Started Liking Cheatin’ Songs,” though covered by the iconic Alan Jackson on his 1999 album “Under the Influence,” wasn’t originally his song. The track finds its roots in the work of another country music legend, John Anderson.
Anderson released his version in 1980, and it climbed the charts to reach number 13. The song tells the story of a man noticing a shift in his partner’s taste in music, specifically towards songs about infidelity. This change sparks a wave of insecurity and suspicion within him. However, the lyrics cleverly leave the true meaning ambiguous.
Is the woman genuinely drawn to the themes of cheating, hinting at a potential straying of her own? Or is she simply enjoying the dramatic storytelling and emotional depth often found in these country ballads? The song’s beauty lies in this uncertainty, allowing listeners to project their own interpretations.
Jackson’s cover stays true to the original’s core message. His signature smooth vocals deliver the protagonist’s internal struggle, his voice tinged with worry as he contemplates the possible reasons behind his partner’s new musical preference. Whether it’s a harmless change in taste or a deeper reflection of their relationship, “She Just Started Liking Cheatin’ Songs” invites us into a world of country twang and emotional turmoil.