Introduction
“Dallas” is a notable track by American country music artist Alan Jackson, co-written with producer Keith Stegall. Released on December 30, 1991, as the third single from his second studio album, Don’t Rock the Jukebox, the song showcases Jackson’s traditional country style and storytelling prowess. It achieved significant success, becoming his fourth consecutive number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart and also topping the Canadian RPM Country Tracks chart.
The inspiration for “Dallas” stemmed from Jackson’s performance at Billy Bob’s Texas, a renowned honky-tonk in Fort Worth. After the show, he remarked that he “wished Dallas was in Tennessee,” a sentiment that sparked the creation of the song.
Critically, “Dallas” was well-received for its engaging lyrics and classic country sound. Kevin John Coyne of Country Universe awarded the song a B+ grade, noting its simplicity complemented by clever lyrics and Jackson’s smooth, agreeable vocals.
The track features prominent pedal steel guitar and fiddle, contributing to its neotraditional country genre classification.
“Dallas” stands as a testament to Alan Jackson’s ability to craft relatable narratives rooted in everyday experiences. Its success further solidified his presence in the country music scene during the early 1990s, contributing to the enduring appeal of Don’t Rock the Jukebox, which was certified 4× Platinum by the RIAA in 1995.