Introduction
“Pop a Top” is a country song written by Nat Stuckey in 1966. The first hit version was released by Jim Ed Brown in May 1967 as the third and final single from his album “Just Jim.” Brown’s rendition became a significant success, reaching number 3 on the Billboard country charts in late 1967.
In 1999, Alan Jackson revived “Pop a Top” as the lead single for his album “Under the Influence,” a collection that paid homage to classic country songs. Jackson’s version peaked at number 6 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart and number 2 on the Canadian RPM Country Tracks chart.
The song’s narrative centers on a bar patron requesting another beer to cope with heartache after his lover leaves him. A distinctive feature of the track is the sound of a metal “pop-top” can being opened, which was a novelty at the time and is prominently featured throughout the song.
The music video for Jackson’s rendition, directed by Steven Goldmann, features comedian Cledus T. Judd. It begins with Judd singing a parody of Jackson’s “Here in the Real World” (“Here in the Beer World”) before finding himself at a black-tie event where Jackson is performing. The video alternates between shots of Jackson on stage and scenes of attendees transforming into their more relaxed, “country” selves whenever a glass passes in front of the camera. As the song concludes, Judd returns to his kitchen, attempting to recreate the “magic” by opening more beers.
Alan Jackson’s “Pop a Top” not only pays tribute to the original but also introduces the classic to a new generation, showcasing Jackson’s respect for country music traditions.