Prepare yourself for a musical journey into the heart of country music’s most iconic figure, George Jones. The “Best of George Jones” encompasses his timeless classics and hidden gems, painting a vivid tapestry of the man known as “The Possum.” From the legendary love ballads that soared to the top of the charts to the heart-wrenching tales of heartbreak and sorrow, this collection showcases the extraordinary artistry and raw emotions that defined Jones’ unparalleled career.
As you immerse yourself in these unforgettable songs, you’ll witness the evolution of a musical genius. From his early honky-tonk anthems to his later crossover successes, each track bears the imprint of Jones’ inimitable vocal style. His rich, whiskey-soaked voice conveys a profound depth of emotion, capturing the full spectrum of human experiences with both vulnerability and unwavering strength. The heartbreakingly beautiful “He Stopped Loving Her Today” remains an undisputed masterpiece, demonstrating Jones’ unmatched ability to evoke the bittersweet pangs of love lost.
Beyond the iconic hits, “The Best of George Jones” unlocks a treasure trove of lesser-known gems that further illuminate the breadth of his talent. Songs like “Walk Through This World with Me” and “The Grand Tour” showcase Jones’ versatility, from his tender ballads to his playful and humorous side. His collaborations with other country legends, such as Tammy Wynette and Johnny Cash, highlight the enduring power of their collective artistry. Through the highs and lows of his personal journey, George Jones poured his soul into his music, leaving an indelible mark on country music and countless hearts around the world.
Heartbreak Champions
Often considered country music’s greatest honky-tonk singer, George Jones was born in Saratoga, Texas, and was from the start a musical maverick. He defied his label’s attempts to make him sing pop, and instead stuck to hardcore country themes of heartbreak, drink, and cheating. Naturally, his biggest hits came from love gone wrong, with his aching tenor sharing every ounce of those emotions. Jones’ greatest songs, including “She Thinks I Still Care,” “A Picture of Me (Without You),” and “The Grand Tour,” are as emotionally evocative as anything in country music.
Tear In My Beer
In the late ’50s, George Jones began enjoying consistent hit singles with songs of divorce, drunkenness, and general despair. Some of these were uptempo, but Jones hit his stride with tear-in-my-beer ballads. His 1959 smash “White Lightning” was a rare fast-paced exception, and he followed it with “Tender Years” and “Walk Through This Heart.” But the material that revealed Jones’ true genius were achingly slow, string-drenched numbers like “He Stopped Loving Her Today,” “The Window Up Above,” and “I’ll Share My World With You.”
In 1966, he teamed with Melba Montgomery to record “We Must Have Been Out of Our Minds,” which became a top-five hit. The pair married in 1968 and briefly formed a lucrative duo act. But Montgomery’s solo career never took off, and her frustration with Jones’ heavy drinking and philandering eventually led to their divorce in 1976. Meanwhile, Jones continued recording hit songs, including “My Woman, My Word,” “The Grand Tour,” and “Who’s Gonna Fill Their Shoes.”
Jones’ career was on the downswing by the 1980s, due to years of alcohol abuse and personal problems. However, he began a comeback with the 1980 hit “He Stopped Loving Her Today.” The song, written by Bobby Braddock and Curly Putman, was originally intended for Conway Twitty, but Twitty passed on it, thinking it was too slow. Jones recorded it and the song became his signature hit, winning the CMA’s Song of the Year award and cementing Jones’ status as a country music legend.
| Year | Song | Peak Chart Position |
|---|---|---|
| 1959 | White Lightning | 1 |
| 1966 | We Must Have Been Out of Our Minds (with Melba Montgomery) | 5 |
| 1972 | The Grand Tour | 1 |
| 1980 | He Stopped Loving Her Today | 1 |
The Ballad King’s Best
George Jones’ immense talent and profound influence on the world of country music have earned him the undisputed title of the “Ballad King.” Throughout his long and storied career, he delivered a vast catalog of unforgettable songs that continue to captivate audiences. Here’s just a glimpse into some of Jones’ most enduring and iconic ballads:
He Stopped Loving Her Today
Widely regarded as Jones’ signature song, “He Stopped Loving Her Today” is a masterpiece of heartbreak and loss. Its poignant lyrics, haunting melody, and Jones’ raw, emotional performance have made it an enduring classic, leaving an enduring mark on country music history.
White Lightning
One of Jones’ earliest hits, “White Lightning” is an energetic, foot-stomping anthem to moonshining. Jones’ infectious vocals and the song’s energetic rhythm make it an unforgettable tribute to the illicit spirit that has long been ingrained in Appalachian culture.
The Grand Tour
A searing and unflinching ballad, “The Grand Tour” chronicles the devastating consequences of infidelity and alcoholism. Jones’ deeply personal and heart-wrenching performance showcases his ability to convey raw emotions with unparalleled authenticity. It’s a song that has resonated deeply with countless listeners who have experienced similar struggles.
| Song | Year Released | Album |
|---|---|---|
| He Stopped Loving Her Today | 1980 | He Stopped Loving Her Today |
| White Lightning | 1959 | White Lightning |
| The Grand Tour | 1974 | The Grand Tour |
A Hundred Hits: George Jones
### The Definitive Collection – 30 Songs
This double-disc set includes some of Jones’ most iconic hits, such as “He Stopped Loving Her Today,” “The Race Is On,” and “She Thinks I Still Care.” It’s a great introduction to the man who was known as “The Possum.”
### 40 Greatest Hits
This single-disc compilation features 40 of Jones’ biggest hits, spanning his career from the 1950s to the 1990s. It’s a great value for fans who want to own a comprehensive collection of his music.
### Golden Hits
This single-disc compilation features 18 of Jones’ most popular hits, including “The Grand Tour,” “I Really Don’t Want to Know,” and “Walk Through This World with Me.”
### The Essential George Jones: The Spirit of Country Music
This three-disc set features 51 of Jones’ most essential songs. It’s a comprehensive collection that spans his entire career and includes all of his biggest hits.
### 30 Greatest Hits by George Jones
| # | Title |
|---|---|
| 1 | He Stopped Loving Her Today |
| 2 | The Race Is On |
| 3 | She Thinks I Still Care |
| 4 | I Don’t Need Your Rockin’ Chair |
| 5 | White Lightning |
| 6 | Tender Years |
| 7 | Walk Through This World with Me |
| 8 | The Grand Tour |
| 9 | I Really Don’t Want to Know |
| 10 | Good Year for the Roses |
This single-disc compilation features 30 of Jones’ biggest hits, including “He Stopped Loving Her Today,” “The Race Is On,” and “She Thinks I Still Care.” It’s a great introduction to the man who was known as “The Possum.”
The Quintessential Jones
6. The Ballad of the Broken Man
Released in 1961, “The Ballad of the Broken Man” is a heart-wrenching tale of a man who has lost everything he holds dear. The song’s haunting melody and Jones’s raw, emotional performance make it one of his most enduring classics. It reached number one on the Billboard Country Singles chart and became a crossover hit, peaking at number 74 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song’s success cemented Jones’s status as a country music legend, and it has since been covered by numerous artists, including Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, and George Strait.
The song’s lyrics tell the story of a man who has lost his job, his home, and his family. He is now a broken man, living on the streets and begging for money. The song’s chorus is a lament, as the man sings, “I’m a broken man, Lord, I’m a broken man.” The song’s ending is especially poignant, as the man realizes that his only hope is in God. He sings, “I’m going to try to make it, Lord, with your help.”
The song’s powerful lyrics and Jones’s emotional performance make it a true masterpiece of country music. It is a song that has resonated with listeners for decades, and it remains one of Jones’s most beloved songs.
| Year | Album | Peak Chart Position |
|---|---|---|
| 1961 | Golden Hits of George Jones | 1 (Billboard Country Singles) |
| 1961 | Billboard Hot 100 | 74 |
Timeless Classics from the Possum
She Thinks I Still Care
Released in 1962, “She Thinks I Still Care” was one of Jones’s earliest hits. It’s a classic country ballad about a man who’s still in love with his ex-girlfriend and can’t move on. The song’s heartbreaking lyrics and Jones’s powerful vocals make it a timeless classic.
He Stopped Loving Her Today
“He Stopped Loving Her Today” is arguably Jones’s most famous song. Written by Bobby Braddock and Curly Putman, the song tells the story of a man who can’t get over his lost love. It’s a poignant and moving ballad that has been covered by countless artists. Jones’s version, released in 1980, is considered the definitive recording.
The Grand Tour
“The Grand Tour” is a mid-tempo country song released in 1974. It’s a humorous and lighthearted song about a man who takes his girlfriend on a road trip. The song’s catchy melody and Jones’s playful vocals make it a fun and enjoyable listen.
The Race Is On
“The Race Is On” is a fast-paced country song released in 1964. It’s a racing anthem about a man who’s trying to win the heart of a woman. The song’s energetic tempo and Jones’s passionate vocals make it a foot-tapping classic.
Choices
“Choices” is a heartfelt country ballad released in 1999. It’s a song about the difficult choices we all face in life. Jones’s honest and introspective lyrics, combined with his emotional vocals, make “Choices” a powerful and moving song.
I Don’t Need Your Rockin’ Chair
“I Don’t Need Your Rockin’ Chair” is a defiant country song released in 1983. It’s a song about a man who’s been through hard times but is still standing strong. Jones’s gravelly voice and the song’s driving beat make it a powerful and inspiring anthem.
Top 10 George Jones Songs
| Rank | Song Title | Year Released |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | He Stopped Loving Her Today | 1980 |
| 2 | She Thinks I Still Care | 1962 |
| 3 | The Race Is On | 1964 |
| 4 | The Grand Tour | 1974 |
| 5 | Choices | 1999 |
| 6 | I Don’t Need Your Rockin’ Chair | 1983 |
| 7 | Why Baby Why | 1955 |
| 8 | White Lightnin’ | 1959 |
| 9 | Love Bug | 1961 |
| 10 | Walk Through This World with Me | 1967 |
9. The Essential George Jones
George Jones’s unparalleled talent and emotional depth have earned him the title of “The No-Show Jones” due to his occasional habit of missing performances. However, his musical legacy remains unblemished, and this definitive collection captures the essence of his remarkable career.
The Grand Tour of Heartbreak
“The Grand Tour of Heartbreak” is a heart-wrenching ballad that epitomizes Jones’s ability to convey raw emotion. Its haunting melody and evocative lyrics paint a vivid picture of a shattered soul, leaving listeners captivated by its poignant beauty.
Measure of a Man
“Measure of a Man” showcases Jones’s masterful storytelling abilities. The song delves into the complexities of human nature, exploring themes of resilience, forgiveness, and the enduring power of love. Its poignant lyrics and heartfelt delivery resonate deeply with listeners, leaving an unforgettable impression.
A Drunk Can’t Be a Dad
“A Drunk Can’t Be a Dad” is a powerful and deeply personal ballad that addresses the devastating consequences of alcoholism. Jones’s raw and emotional performance exposes the pain and regret associated with addiction, serving as a cautionary tale and a testament to his enduring commitment to recovery.
The Race Is On
“The Race Is On” is a high-energy honky-tonk anthem that showcases Jones’s remarkable vocal range and infectious charisma. Its driving beat and playful lyrics create an irresistible dance floor classic, solidifying Jones’s status as one of the greatest performers in country music history.
Other Notable Tracks
This definitive collection also includes a host of other classic George Jones songs, each showcasing a different facet of his musical genius:
| Song Title | Description |
|---|---|
| “Why Baby Why” | A heart-wrenching ballad that explores the complexities of love and loss |
| “He Stopped Loving Her Today” | One of Jones’s signature songs, a deeply emotional ballad about heartbreak and redemption |
| “Tender Years” | A tender and nostalgic ode to childhood and the passage of time |
The Best of George Jones: A Timeless Collection of Country Classics
George Jones, known as “The Possum,” is widely regarded as one of the greatest country music singers of all time. His distinctive voice, emotional delivery, and unforgettable songs have left an enduring mark on the genre. The album “The Best of George Jones” is a testament to his artistry and features some of his most beloved and iconic hits.
From the heart-wrenching ballad “He Stopped Loving Her Today” to the honky-tonk anthem “The Race Is On,” this album showcases the full range of Jones’s vocal abilities and songwriting prowess. His ability to convey raw emotion and longing in his songs is evident throughout, making each track a testament to his talent as both a performer and a storyteller.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to George Jones’s music, “The Best of George Jones” is an essential addition to any country music collection. Its timelessness, emotional depth, and undeniable musical brilliance make it a classic that will continue to be enjoyed by generations to come.
People Also Ask About “The Best of George Jones”
What is George Jones’s most famous song?
“He Stopped Loving Her Today”
“He Stopped Loving Her Today” is considered George Jones’s signature song and is widely regarded as one of the greatest country music songs ever written. Its heartbreaking lyrics and Jones’s emotional delivery have made it an enduring classic.
What genre is George Jones’s music?
Country
George Jones’s music is primarily classified as country music. His distinctive singing style, influenced by traditional honky-tonk, is a defining characteristic of his sound.
When was “The Best of George Jones” released?
1976
“The Best of George Jones” was released in 1976 and quickly became a commercial and critical success. It has since been certified platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).
