Introduction
Feels So Right: A Country Ballad Ushering in a New Era for Alabama
“Feels So Right,” the title track from Alabama’s 1981 album, wasn’t just a song – it was a turning point for the band and country music as a whole. Released in May 1981, the song became their fourth consecutive number one single on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart, solidifying their place as rising stars. But “Feels So Right” offered something more than traditional country fare.
Written by band member Randy Owen, the song blended the familiar sounds of country with softer melodies and pop influences. This genre-meshing approach resonated with a wider audience, propelling “Feels So Right” to number 20 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart – a significant feat for a country song at the time. It also became Alabama’s first entry on the Adult Contemporary chart, reaching the top ten.
“Feels So Right” wasn’t just about chart success; it marked several firsts for Alabama. It was the title track to their first number one album on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart, an album that stayed on the charts for an impressive three years, longer than any other Alabama record. The song also had a unique distinction on the country charts: it became the first number one single to drop straight out of the Top 40 after its reign.
Despite this unusual chart quirk, “Feels So Right” left a lasting impact. It cemented Alabama’s reputation as innovators, blurring genre lines and paving the way for a more pop-influenced sound in country music. With its smooth vocals, relatable lyrics about love and connection, and genre-bending style, “Feels So Right” remains a timeless classic, a reminder of the song’s role in propelling Alabama to superstardom and ushering in a new era for country music.