Steve Earle’s “I Feel Alright”: A Timeless Tune for Troubled Times
Remember the mid-90s? A time of grunge, gangsta rap, and a certain level of uncertainty about the future. Amidst this musical landscape, singer-songwriter Steve Earle released his sixth studio album, I Feel Alright. While the title might suggest a carefree, optimistic outlook, the album’s lyrics and Earle’s signature raspy vocals delve into themes of life’s complexities and the human condition.
The album’s title track, “I Feel Alright,” has a special place in music history. It was prominently featured in the closing scenes of the gritty HBO series The Wire, season 2, a show that delved deep into the underbelly of Baltimore. The song’s inclusion in such a critically acclaimed series gave it a wider audience and solidified its place in popular culture.
What makes “I Feel Alright” so compelling? It’s a blend of Earle’s signature roots-rock sound, combined with introspective lyrics that invite listeners to contemplate their own lives and experiences. The song’s chorus, “I feel alright, I feel alright tonight,” is both a declaration of resilience and a recognition of the challenges that life throws our way. It’s a sentiment that resonates with people of all ages, but perhaps especially with those who have weathered their share of storms.
Critics were also quick to praise the album. Entertainment Weekly gave I Feel Alright an “A” grade, with reviewer Alanna Nash noting that while the album might not deliver the gritty sound that Earle is known for, “his roots-rock joie de vivre sends no apologies, only a healthy message for the ’90s: Don’t feel bad about feeling good.” The album’s positive reception cemented Earle’s status as one of the most respected singer-songwriters of his generation.
So, the next time you find yourself feeling a bit down, put on Steve Earle’s “I Feel Alright.” Let the music wash over you and remind yourself that even in the darkest of times, there’s always a reason to feel hopeful.