About the Song
Released in 2015 as part of Alan Jackson’s album Genuine: The Alan Jackson Story, “Love Is Hard” is a song that captures the complexities of love and relationships with Jackson’s signature blend of heartfelt lyrics and traditional country sound. Written by Alan Jackson, the song takes a deep dive into the emotional struggles of love, illustrating how, despite the joys, love can be difficult, challenging, and sometimes painful.
Lyrically, “Love Is Hard” expresses the narrator’s feelings of frustration and confusion in a relationship. The song speaks to the contradictions of love—how it can be both rewarding and difficult at the same time. The narrator reflects on the moments when love feels unattainable or out of reach, while also acknowledging its power to heal and sustain. It’s a relatable exploration of the emotional ups and downs that come with being in a relationship, making it resonate with anyone who has ever faced the complexities of love.
Musically, the song features Alan Jackson’s familiar blend of traditional country instrumentation, with smooth guitar strumming, steel guitar, and soft percussion creating a mellow, reflective mood. The arrangement is simple but effective, allowing Jackson’s rich baritone voice to shine and convey the emotion of the lyrics. His delivery is both sincere and contemplative, adding depth to the song’s message of love’s challenges.
As part of Genuine: The Alan Jackson Story, “Love Is Hard” fits seamlessly within the album’s theme of love, heartache, and personal reflection. While it wasn’t a commercial hit on the scale of some of Jackson’s other songs, it remains a standout for its honesty and emotional depth. The song showcases Alan Jackson’s ability to tackle the complexities of love in a way that feels both genuine and accessible.
Overall, “Love Is Hard” is a beautifully written and performed country ballad that explores the challenges of love with both vulnerability and honesty. Alan Jackson’s ability to convey deep emotion through his voice and songwriting makes this song a poignant and relatable piece of his catalog, further cementing his place as one of country music’s most respected and enduring artists.