Introduction
Alan Jackson’s “The One You’re Waitin’ On” isn’t your typical heartbreak ballad. Released in 2015 on his album “Angels and Alcohol,” the song takes a more observational approach, weaving a narrative from the perspective of a man watching a woman at a bar.
The inspiration for the song came from a songwriting duo, Monty Holmes and Blair Daly. While details are scarce, Jackson himself has spoken about his connection to the song, acknowledging the universality of the story it tells [Behind The Song “The One You’re Waiting On” by Alan Jackson – YouTube].
“The One You’re Waitin’ On” paints a vivid picture. We see the woman, alone at a table, politely deflecting unwanted attention while swirling her wine. The narrator ponders the situation, questioning the character of the one who keeps her waiting. Are they truly “Mr. Right,” or is she clinging to an idealized version of a relationship?
The song’s strength lies in its relatable characters and unanswered questions. It doesn’t offer a resolution, instead leaving the listener to ponder the woman’s fate and the frustration of waiting for someone who might not be worth it.
So, before you hit play on “The One You’re Waitin’ On,” settle in for a story about missed connections, unspoken desires, and the courage to maybe, just maybe, take a chance on someone who’s already there.