Introduction
“Love in the First Degree” is one of the most iconic hits by the American country band Alabama. Released in October 1981 as the third single from their album Feels So Right, this song solidified Alabama’s status as one of the leading country music bands of the early 1980s. Written by Jim Hurt and Tim DuBois, “Love in the First Degree” features a perfect blend of traditional country elements with the soft rock influences that characterized much of Alabama’s music during this era.
The song’s lyrics tell the story of a man who compares falling in love to being convicted of a crime, with phrases like “I once thought of love as a prison” and “You led me to believe, I’d be better off with you than where I was.” The clever metaphor of love as a “first-degree” offense—typically the most serious level of a crime—highlights the intensity and inescapability of his feelings. This concept resonated with many listeners, making the song both relatable and memorable.
Musically, “Love in the First Degree” is characterized by its upbeat tempo, catchy melody, and harmonious vocal arrangements, which became a trademark of Alabama’s sound. The song received significant radio airplay and quickly climbed the charts, peaking at number 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart in February 1982. It also crossed over to the pop charts, reaching number 15 on the Billboard Hot 100, demonstrating Alabama’s broad appeal beyond the country music scene.
“Love in the First Degree” became one of Alabama’s signature songs and remains a staple in their live performances. Its success helped cement the band’s place in country music history and contributed to the broader movement of country-pop crossover hits that dominated the early 1980s. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal, catchy melody, and universal theme of love.