Hailing from the quiet town of Otis Orchards, Washington, Rusty Jackson is a singer-songwriter and producer whose music blends the heartfelt roots of traditional country with a witty, contemporary edge. A genuine craftsman of storytelling, Rusty doesn’t just write songs, he builds musical narratives infused with humor, soul, and a deep respect for life’s real moments. Rusty’s journey into music is a testament to his enduring passion and versatility. While his original works continue to carve his place in the country scene, he’s also an accomplished performer and producer of tribute shows, including the self-conceived and co-produced stage production The History of Rock and Roll, a musical homage to the pioneers of the genre, which he will perform at the historic Bing Crosby Theater in Spokane, Washington, on May 25th.
His influences are deeply rooted in the legendary stylings of Mel Tillis, Trace Adkins, and Travis Tritt, artists known for combining gritty country realism with lyrical finesse. Rusty channels their spirit into his own unique sound, one that honors the past while pushing into fresh, engaging territory. Whether he’s writing heartfelt ballads or clever comedic tunes, his music remains grounded in authenticity and musical integrity. Released on November 28th, 2024, She Likes to Be on Top is Rusty Jackson’s exceptional original single, an irresistibly cheeky, yet thoughtful anthem that celebrates strong, confident women with charm, clever wordplay, and an old-school country soul. Teaming up with Ben Vogel, who co-produced, recorded, and performed every instrument on the track, Rusty delivers a masterclass in musical wit and catchy storytelling.
Inspired by his deep admiration for smart and resilient women, the song is laced with double entendres that amuse crowds during live performances while subtly championing female empowerment. Recorded at Ben Vogel’s studio in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, the track blends classic country tones with modern polish, capturing Rusty’s unique blend of sincerity and humor. This single isn’t just a song, it’s a statement: lighthearted, bold, and refreshingly honest. With She Likes to Be on Top, Rusty Jackson proves once again that country music still has room for laughter, respect, and a little lyrical mischief.
From the very first note, Rusty Jackson’s She Likes to Be on Top gallops into the ears with a bold confidence that immediately sets the tone for what’s to come, a playful, tongue-in-cheek narrative layered over rich, classic country instrumentation. The song opens with an assertive country-rock groove, where a tight rhythm section and spirited electric guitar licks draw you in and let you know this isn’t your average country song. It’s a compelling blend of familiarity and freshness, striking a rare balance between genre tradition and modern lyrical boldness. From that very first bar, I felt like I was being pulled into a honky-tonk bar in the heart of the American South, where storytelling is king and charm is currency.
Musically, She Likes to Be on Top is anchored in classic country rock roots, but Rusty Jackson manages to inject just the right amount of modern polish. The guitars swing with a groovy swagger, alternating between crisp, rhythmic strums and melodic riffs that flirt with blues and Americana. The percussion doesn’t just support, it struts, adding a confident backbone to the song’s structure. As the song progresses, subtle shifts in dynamics keep the momentum alive, with instrumental breaks that allow the guitars to shine without overwhelming the vocal narrative. These transitions never feel jarring; instead, they contribute to a flowing sense of movement, as if the song is confidently telling its story while giving the band room to breathe and flourish.
Rusty Jackson’s vocal performance is the true centerpiece here. His delivery is both smooth and characterful, with just the right hint of mischief. There’s a relaxed, almost conversational quality to his voice, the kind of tone you’d expect from a seasoned storyteller leaning over a bar counter with a glint in his eye. Jackson doesn’t over-sing; he stays in his pocket, letting the lyrics take center stage while the music wraps around his voice like a well-worn leather jacket. When he sings lines like She likes to be on top, she likes to be in charge, you can’t help but smirk at the double entendre, but also nod at the honesty and humor in the sentiment.
The blend of instrumentation and vocals creates an atmosphere that is both lighthearted and musically rich. The song’s arrangements are crisp and deliberate, leaving no space wasted, every lick, every drumbeat, every vocal inflection feels intentional. Together, the instrumentation and vocals conjure a warm, rollicking energy that evokes images of dance floors, barroom chuckles, and midnight drives. This synergy gives the song its undeniable charm. It’s that rare kind of track where the band feels like a collective narrator, each element contributing to the overall storytelling.
Emotionally, She Likes to Be on Top hits with a surprising amount of joy and relatability. It’s humorous without being corny, confident without being arrogant. The mood it creates is upbeat and infectious, I found myself smiling involuntarily as the track played on, drawn into its cheeky, self-aware world. And beneath its surface wit lies a subtle commentary on relationships, compromise, and letting go of ego. The line Just hold it deep inside and let her be on top becomes both a punchline and a piece of genuine wisdom, cleverly delivered within a musically rich setting. Production-wise, the song is impressively clean and balanced. There’s a clarity to the mix that allows each instrument to shine while never overpowering the vocal line.
The high-quality production ensures that the energy and humor of the performance come through with full impact. Nothing feels cluttered or overdone, it’s a masterclass in doing just enough and doing it right. The result is a track that feels radio-ready, playlist-worthy, and live-performance primed. She Likes to Be on Top is a gem of contemporary country songwriting, humorous, honest, and musically engaging. Rusty Jackson brings all the right elements together: sharp storytelling, charismatic vocals, tight musicianship, and sleek production. The song doesn’t just entertain; it lingers in your mind, inviting repeat listens and shared laughs. It’s the kind of song that doesn’t just play in the background, it walks up, tips its hat, and says, Let me tell you a little story. And what a story it is.
For more information about Rusty Jackson, click on the icons below.