About the song
“Wanted” by Alan Jackson, a classic country ballad that beautifully captures the yearning and vulnerability of a man deeply in love and hoping his affections are reciprocated. Released in 1990, this song became one of Jackson’s early signature hits, showcasing his smooth vocal delivery and his knack for conveying heartfelt emotion through simple, relatable lyrics. It’s more than just a song about wanting someone; it’s a sincere and almost desperate plea for love and acceptance.
The lyrics of “Wanted” are a direct and honest expression of a man’s deep desire to be loved and cherished by a specific woman. The repeated declaration “Wanted” serves as a central theme, highlighting his longing to be the object of her affection. He lays bare his vulnerability, acknowledging his imperfections and expressing his hope that she sees something worthwhile in him. The verses detail his admiration for her and his yearning for a deeper connection, emphasizing his willingness to be everything she desires if only she would return his feelings. Alan Jackson’s vocal delivery is characterized by his smooth, traditional country baritone and a profound sense of sincerity. He sings with a gentle earnestness that makes the listener feel the depth of his longing and the vulnerability of his plea. There’s a heartfelt quality in his voice that resonates deeply with anyone who has experienced the yearning of unrequited or uncertain love.
The musical arrangement of “Wanted” is a classic example of a beautifully crafted early 1990s country ballad. Featuring a gentle and flowing melody carried by acoustic guitars and subtle piano, with a soft and steady rhythm section and the poignant twang of a steel guitar that underscores the emotional depth, the instrumentation creates a warm and intimate atmosphere. The production is clean and uncluttered, allowing Jackson’s sincere vocals and the heartfelt simplicity of the lyrics to take center stage. The overall effect is one of quiet yearning and deep emotional resonance, evoking a sense of hope mixed with a palpable vulnerability.
“Wanted” resonated deeply with audiences because it tapped into the universal desire to be loved and accepted for who we are. The straightforward and honest expression of vulnerability and the sincere plea for affection are emotions that many can easily identify with. Alan Jackson’s heartfelt delivery and the song’s beautiful melody and relatable lyrics have made it a timeless and cherished ballad in the country music landscape, a sincere anthem for anyone who has ever felt “Wanted” by someone special.
In essence, “Wanted” is more than just an early hit for Alan Jackson; it’s a tender and sincere expression of deep longing and the vulnerability of wanting to be loved, delivered with his signature smooth baritone and heartfelt sincerity. Its enduring popularity lies in its relatable theme and Jackson’s ability to evoke a profound emotional connection with his gentle and earnest delivery of this classic plea: “Wanted.”
Video
Lyrics
Excuse me
Ma’am, can you help me?
I need to place an ad with you today
No ma’am
Tomorrow may be too late
I’d like to have it started right away
What’s that?
No, this is personal
I’m not buying or selling anything
Yes, ma’am
I know just what to say
I wrote it down
This is how it should read
Wanted!
One good hearted woman
To forgive imperfections
In the man that she loves
Wanted!
Just one chance to tell her
How much he still loves her
He can’t be sorry enough
What’s that?
No, that’s all I want to say
I just hope these few lines will get to her
Yes, ma’am
She means everything
I hope she comes back
When she reads these words
Wanted!
One good hearted woman
To forgive imperfections
In the man that she loves
Wanted!
Just one chance to tell her
How much he still loves her
He can’t be sorry enough
Wanted!
