Alan Jackson Describes What He Wants from A Partner in His Song “Wanted”

In 1990, Alan Jackson released one of the catchiest country songs, “Wanted,” as part of his album Here in the Real World. 

Right after its release, the song immediately topped the charts, landing at no. 3 on both the US Hot Country Songs (Billboard) and Canada Country Tracks (RPM) – making it one of Alan Jackson’s top hits. 

With his distinct Sinewy baritone voice, the song became a staple hit to listeners who are on a hunt to look for a lover. After his debut single “Blue Blooded Woman” peaked in the charts, Jackson has continually enjoyed his commercial breakthrough with “Wanted.”

As he was refining his songwriting skills, Jackson tried using metaphors to convey the message of his songs—and Wanted is one of many he wrote using such a technique. 

Meaning Behind the Song

Written by Alan Jackson and Charlie Craig, the song serves as a classified ad that describes what the protagonist wants from his future romantic partner. It mostly emphasizes that the future partner should be a good-hearted woman who is willing to forgive the imperfections of the man she loves. 

Using a “Wanted Poster” as a metaphor for this song may be one of the most creative ways one can describe the message of the song. Considering that people have their own standards for a partner, it didn’t take too long before this song became a staple hit among listeners. 

In an interview, Jackson revealed that he was inspired by the song while on the road for his Honky-Tonky Highway Tour. 

While in a motel in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, he suddenly decided to write a song. While strumming his guitar as he watched an Old John Wayne western on TV, he came across a dude with a poster over his head. For some reason, the word “Wanted” stuck with Jackson, causing him to use the word as a metaphor for his song. 

So if you haven’t checked out this masterpiece yet, you can watch Alan Jackson’s powerful performance of “Wanted” below to avoid missing out on gems like this one.