Unveiling the Heartfelt Anthem: Alan Jackson‘s Inspiring Journey Behind “Where Were You (When the World Stopped Turning)”
Certain moments in history leave an indelible mark on our lives, etched in our memories forever. These are the moments when we vividly recall where we were and what we were doing. For many, the list includes the attack on Pearl Harbor, the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the passing of Elvis Presley, the explosion of the Space Shuttle Challenger, and the unforgettable September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks on New York City and Washington, D.C.
In the face of this devastating event, country music legend Alan Jackson found solace and a profound need to express his thoughts and emotions through music. Jackson, known for his traditional sound and heartfelt lyrics, was deeply moved by the tragedy. On the morning of the attacks, he had just returned from his routine walk when he turned on the television and learned of the horrifying news. His songwriter instincts immediately kicked in, and he felt compelled to create a song that would capture the collective sentiments of the nation.
Weeks passed before Jackson could articulate his emotions into a song. Then, in the early hours of Sunday, October 28, 2001, inspiration struck. Jackson abruptly awoke at 4 a.m., with the melody, opening lines, and chorus playing in his mind. Determined not to let this powerful creation slip away, he grabbed a hand-held digital recorder and hastily sang the words into it. Later that morning, after his family had gone to church, Jackson sat down in his study and penned the lyrics to what would become “Where Were You (When the World Stopped Turning).”
Initially, Jackson was hesitant about recording the song, fearing that people might accuse him of exploiting the tragedy for personal gain. However, after playing it for his wife and producer, their overwhelming response convinced him otherwise. With their encouragement, Jackson played the song for a group of label executives, leaving them in stunned silence. The impact was undeniable.
Scheduled to perform at the Country Music Association (CMA) Awards ceremony on November 7, 2001, Jackson had initially planned to showcase his chart-topping hit “Where I Come From.” However, just days before the event, his manager shared a recording of “Where Were You (When the World Stopped Turning)” with the CMA executives, leaving them moved to tears.
With the stage set, the decision was made to introduce the song to the world. On the awards night, Alan Jackson took his place on a stool, accompanied by an orchestra and backing singers. As he delivered the poignant lyrics, the audience rose in a spontaneous standing ovation. This captivating performance, coupled with an introduction from host Vince Gill, became the official music video for the song.
The following day, country music radio stations across the nation began playing Jackson’s new composition, which had been taped from the awards show. Even pop-oriented stations, including one in New York City, joined in sharing the powerful anthem. Consequently, “Where Were You (When the World Stopped Turning)” made its debut at an impressive #25 on the Billboard country chart, the highest debut since Garth Brooks’ “The Thunder Rolls” in 1991.
Within a week, the song climbed to #12 on the chart, and on December 29th, it claimed the top spot, reaching #1. In just six weeks, it became the fastest-rising song in four years. The track also made its mark on the Billboard Hot 100 pop chart, peaking at #28.
Demand for the song skyrocketed, and Jackson’s record label was unable to manufacture a commercial single quickly enough to meet the fervor. Instead, they expedited the release of his album, “Drive,” including both the studio version and the live CMA Awards rendition of “Where Were You (When the World Stopped Turning).” The album soared to the top of both the country and pop charts, marking Jackson’s first #1 pop album and maintaining its position for five weeks.
Remarkably, “Where Were You (When the World Stopped Turning)” was not released as a benefit song, and the allocation of proceeds to 9/11-related charities remains undisclosed. Jackson preferred to make his donations privately, emphasizing his commitment to supporting causes without official ties.
Critics lauded the song’s simplicity, its ability to resonate with people across political affiliations, and its profound impact. Jackson humbly attributed its success to divine inspiration, quoting a phrase attributed to Hank Williams: “God writes the songs, I just hold the pen.” The overwhelming response and accolades surrounding the song were both humbling and overwhelming for Jackson, who struggled with the weight of the subject matter.
The song garnered numerous awards, including “Song of the Year” honors from the Country Music Association and the Academy of Country Music. It also earned Jackson his first Grammy award for “Best Country Song” and a rare nomination in the overall “Song of the Year” category, ultimately losing to Norah Jones’ pop/jazz hit, “Don’t Know Why.” The song’s impact extended beyond music when Georgia Representative Mac Collins entered its lyrics into the United States Congressional Record, recognizing it as a healing tribute to the nation’s wounds.
Alan Jackson’s “Where Were You (When the World Stopped Turning)” remains an enduring anthem that captured the raw emotions and unifying spirit of a nation in the wake of tragedy. Its legacy as a powerful piece of music history continues to resonate with listeners, reminding us of the strength and resilience that can emerge from even the darkest moments.
Released: 2002
Album: Drive
Artist: Alan Jackson
Awards: Country Music Association Award for Song of the Year,
Lyrics
Where were you when the world stopped turnin’
That September day?
Were you in the yard with your wife and children
Or workin’ on some stage in L.A.?
Did you stand there in shock at the sight of that black smoke
Risin’ against that blue sky?
Did you shout out in anger, in fear for your neighbor
Or did you just sit down and cry?
Did you weep for the children, they lost their dear loved ones
Pray for the ones who don’t know?
Did you rejoice for the people who walked from the rubble
And sob for the ones left below?
Did you burst out with pride for the red, white, and blue
And the heroes who died just doin’ what they do?
Did you look up to heaven for some kind of answer
And look at yourself and what really matters?
I’m just a singer of simple songs
I’m not a real political man
I watch CNN, but I’m not sure I can tell you
The diff’rence in Iraq and Iran
But I know Jesus and I talk to God
And I remember this from when I was young
Faith, hope, and love are some good things He gave us
And the greatest is love
Where were you when the world stopped turnin’
That September day?
Teachin’ a class full of innocent children
Or drivin’ down some cold interstate?
Did you feel guilty ’cause you’re a survivor?
In a crowded room did you feel alone?
Did you call up your mother and tell her you love her?
Did you dust off that Bible at home?
Did you open your eyes and hope it never happened
Close your eyes and not go to sleep?
Did you notice the sunset for the first time in ages
And speak to some stranger on the street?
Did you lay down at night and think of tomorrow
Go out and buy you a gun?
Did you turn off that violent old movie you’re watchin’
And turn on I Love Lucy reruns?
Did you go to a church and hold hands with some strangers
Stand in line to give your own blood?
Did you just stay home and cling tight to your family
Thank God you had somebody to love?
I’m just a singer of simple songs
I’m not a real political man
I watch CNN, but I’m not sure I can tell you
The diff’rence in Iraq and Iran
But I know Jesus and I talk to God
And I remember this from when I was young
Faith, hope, and love are some good things He gave us
And the greatest is love
I’m just a singer of simple songs
I’m not a real political man
I watch CNN, but I’m not sure I can tell you
The diff’rence in Iraq and Iran
But I know Jesus and I talk to God
And I remember this from when I was young
Faith, hope, and love are some good things He gave us
And the greatest is love
And the greatest is love
And the greatest is love
Where were you when the world stopped turnin’
On that September day?
