Introduction
“Remember When” is a tender ballad written and performed by American country legend Alan Jackson. Released on October 27, 2003, it served as the second and final single from his Greatest Hits Volume II compilation. The song quickly struck a chord with audiences, spending two weeks at No. 1 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Country Songs chart in February 2004 and peaking at No. 29 on the all‑genre Hot 100 .
Written solely by Jackson and produced by his longtime collaborator Keith Stegall, “Remember When” unfolds as a deeply personal narrative reflecting on a lifetime shared with his wife, Denise. It reminisces about the joy of youthful vows, the challenges of raising children, and the calm contentment felt in later life realizations—a universal journey rendered intimate and vivid Jackson himself has described it as one of his most personal works, showcasing the real-life love story he shares with Denise, whom he’s been with since high school .
The song’s resonance with listeners is undeniable. It has become one of Jackson’s most beloved tracks, with many couples considering it “their song,” and it continues to strike emotional chords two decades later .
The song has also been woven into compelling live moments. In April 2025, Jackson invited Denise onstage during a performance at the Two Step Inn festival in Texas—right before her birthday—to dance close while he sang “Remember When,” celebrating their lasting marriage, the couple’s three daughters, and cherished family memories . That sentiment carried through to May’s 60th ACM Awards, where Jackson delivered an emotionally charged rendition of the song upon receiving the inaugural Alan Jackson Lifetime Achievement Award, moved the audience to tears, and reflected on his enduring journey, including his health challenges with Charcot‑Marie‑Tooth disease .
Through its heartfelt lyrics, simple melody, and autobiographical depth, “Remember When” stands as a signature piece in Jackson’s discography: a poignant chronicle of love, life, and legacy.