Introduction
“Wanted” is a song by American country music artist Alan Jackson, featured on his debut studio album, Here in the Real World, which was released in 1990. Written by Alan Jackson and Charlie Craig, the song became one of Jackson’s early hits, helping to establish him as a prominent figure in the country music scene.
The song tells the story of a man placing a personal ad in a newspaper, describing the qualities he’s looking for in a partner. The narrative cleverly uses the format of a “wanted” ad to express the protagonist’s deep yearning for love and companionship, showcasing Jackson’s talent for storytelling through music.
“Wanted” was released as the third single from Here in the Real World and reached No. 3 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart in 1990. The success of the song, along with the album’s other singles, played a significant role in propelling Jackson to stardom in the early ’90s. The album itself was a major success, reaching platinum status and marking the beginning of what would be a highly successful career for Jackson.
Musically, “Wanted” is characterized by its traditional country sound, featuring steel guitars and a steady rhythm that complements the emotional depth of the lyrics. Jackson’s vocal delivery is earnest and heartfelt, capturing the longing and sincerity of the song’s message.
The music video for “Wanted” further emphasizes the song’s theme of longing and love. Directed by Bing Sokolsky, the video features Jackson performing the song in a simple, rustic setting, which aligns with the song’s traditional country roots.
“Wanted” remains a fan favorite and is often remembered as one of the songs that helped establish Alan Jackson as a leading voice in country music. Its success was a testament to Jackson’s ability to connect with listeners through relatable, heartfelt lyrics and classic country sounds.