Introduction
The heartache of infidelity is a well-worn theme in country music, and Alan Jackson’s “Who’s Cheatin’ Who” takes a unique approach to this familiar ground. Originally written by Jerry Hayes, the song debuted in 1980 as a chart-topping hit for country singer Jeanne Pruett. Pruett’s version casts the woman as the wronged party, lamenting a husband’s straying heart.
Nearly two decades later, Alan Jackson brought a fresh perspective to the song. Jackson’s 1997 cover of “Who’s Cheatin’ Who” flipped the narrative, changing the pronouns to depict the story from a man’s point of view. This twist offered a new layer of complexity, raising questions about blame, denial, and the breakdown of trust.
Jackson’s version, with its signature steel guitar and his plaintive vocals, became a hit in its own right. While the original focused on female heartbreak, Jackson’s rendition explored the pain and confusion experienced by both sides in a failing relationship. “Who’s Cheatin’ Who” stands as a testament to the power of a well-crafted song to resonate with different audiences depending on the perspective.
So, as you listen to Alan Jackson’s “Who’s Cheatin’ Who,” prepare to be drawn into a tangled web of accusations, justifications, and the raw emotions that surface when love goes wrong.