In the annals of country music, few songs encapsulate the raw emotion and personal turmoil of their performers like George Jones’s “If Drinkin’ Don’t Kill Me (Her Memory Will).” This poignant track not only mirrors Jones’s tumultuous personal life but also stands as a testament to his unparalleled ability to convey deep-seated heartache through song.
About The Composition
- Title: If Drinkin’ Don’t Kill Me (Her Memory Will)
- Composer: Harlan Sanders and Rick Beresfordfr.wikipedia.org+3en.wikipedia.org+3alldylan.com+3
- Premiere Date: January 1981en.wikipedia.org+2fr.wikipedia.org+2alldylan.com+2
- Album: I Am What I Amclaremontreviewofbooks.com+8en.wikipedia.org+8it.wikipedia.org+8
- Genre: Countrydiscogs.com+10fr.wikipedia.org+10en.wikipedia.org+10
Background
Released as the third single from the album I Am What I Am, “If Drinkin’ Don’t Kill Me (Her Memory Will)” emerged during a pivotal period in George Jones’s career. The late 1970s had been challenging for Jones, marked by personal struggles and a decline in his musical success. However, the release of “He Stopped Loving Her Today” in 1980 revitalized his career, re-establishing him as a leading figure in country music. Building on this resurgence, “If Drinkin’ Don’t Kill Me” delved deep into themes of heartbreak and self-destruction, resonating with audiences and reaching number 8 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart.
Musical Style
The song exemplifies traditional country music elements, featuring a melancholic melody that underscores its somber lyrics. The instrumentation is classic, with steel guitars and fiddles complementing Jones’s emotive vocal delivery. The arrangement allows the narrative of the lyrics to take center stage, a hallmark of Jones’s style, where his voice conveys profound sorrow and vulnerability.
Lyrics
The lyrics poignantly depict a man drowning his sorrows in alcohol, haunted by the memory of a lost love. Lines like “If drinkin’ don’t kill me, her memory will” encapsulate the dual torment of physical decline and emotional anguish. This narrative mirrors Jones’s own life struggles, adding a layer of authenticity to his performance.
Performance History
Over the years, “If Drinkin’ Don’t Kill Me” has been performed by Jones in various settings, each rendition reflecting his personal connection to the song. Notably, during live performances, Jones would sometimes alter the lyrics to reference his ex-wife, Tammy Wynette, singing, “If drinkin’ don’t kill me, Tammy’s memory will,” showcasing his ability to intertwine personal experiences with his music. en.wikipedia.org
Cultural Impact
The song has cemented its place in country music history as a quintessential portrayal of heartbreak and coping mechanisms. Its raw honesty has influenced countless artists and has been covered by various musicians, attesting to its enduring appeal.
Legacy
Decades after its release, “If Drinkin’ Don’t Kill Me” continues to resonate with audiences, reflecting universal themes of love, loss, and the human condition. It stands as a testament to George Jones’s legacy as one of country music’s most emotive storytellers.
Conclusion
“If Drinkin’ Don’t Kill Me (Her Memory Will)” is more than just a song; it’s a window into the soul of George Jones and the struggles he faced. Its haunting melody and heartfelt lyrics invite listeners to reflect on their own experiences with love and loss. For those wishing to delve deeper into this masterpiece, I recommend listening to the track on platforms like Spotify or viewing live performances available on YouTube to fully appreciate the depth of Jones’s artistry
Video
Lyrics
The bars are all closed
It’s four in the mornin’
I must have shut ’em all down
By the shape that I’m in
I lay my head on the wheel
And the horn begins honkin’
The whole neighborhood knows
That I’m home drunk again
If drinkin’ don’t kill me
Her memory will
I can’t hold out much longer
The way that I feel
With the blood from my body
I could start my own still
But if drinkin’ don’t kill me
Her memory will
These old bones, they move slow
But so sure of their footsteps
As I trip on the floor
And I lightly touch down
Lord, it’s been ten bottles
Since I tried to forget her
But the mem’ry still lingers
Lyin’ here on the ground
And if drinkin’ don’t kill me
Her memory will
I can’t hold out much longer
The way that I feel
With the blood from my body
I could start my own still
But if drinkin’ don’t kill me
Her memory will