“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
There’s a certain rawness to George Jones that few can capture. Whether it’s his legendary voice, tumultuous personal life, or the painful truths of the songs he sang, George’s music resonates deeply. “If Drinking Don’t Kill Me (Her Memory Will)” is no exception. This song is a prime example of how George brought his own struggles to life through his art, turning pain into something profoundly relatable.
About The Composition
- Title: If Drinking Don’t Kill Me (Her Memory Will)
- Composer: Billy Yates, Rick Beresford
- Premiere Date: Released in January 1981
- Album: I Am What I Am
- Genre: Country
Background
“If Drinking Don’t Kill Me (Her Memory Will)” came out during one of George Jones’ most critically acclaimed periods, following the success of his 1980 album I Am What I Am, which included his career-defining hit “He Stopped Loving Her Today.” Written by Billy Yates and Rick Beresford, the song draws on themes of loss, heartache, and self-destruction, reflecting not only the fictional pain of the character but also mirroring George Jones’ own struggles with alcohol and personal demons at the time. It was an instant classic, capturing the essence of country music’s ability to transform personal pain into collective catharsis.
Musical Style
This track is a traditional country ballad, leaning heavily on its simple yet haunting melody to drive home the emotional weight of the lyrics. The song’s instrumentation is classic country—steel guitar, acoustic strums, and a slow, deliberate rhythm that complements Jones’ rich, mournful vocals. The arrangement allows space for George’s voice to take center stage, carrying the burden of sorrow and regret with every note. It’s a masterclass in how minimalism in country music can amplify emotional depth.
Lyrics
The lyrics tell the story of a man drowning in grief, using alcohol as a temporary escape from the memory of a lost love. But the line, “If the whiskey don’t get me, her memory will,” sums up the hopelessness in a way that’s both poignant and devastating. This isn’t a song about redemption or recovery—it’s a resigned acknowledgment that there are some wounds too deep to heal. George Jones sings it with such conviction that it feels like a page ripped from his own life, giving the song an authenticity that few artists could match.
Performance History
Upon its release, “If Drinking Don’t Kill Me (Her Memory Will)” quickly became a staple in George Jones’ live performances. It reached No. 8 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and further cemented his status as one of country music’s most compelling vocalists. Over the years, the song has been covered by other country artists, but no version can quite capture the pain and sincerity of George’s original recording. It’s a song that remains a favorite in George Jones’ discography, and fans still resonate with its tragic beauty.
Cultural Impact
Though the song did not reach the commercial heights of “He Stopped Loving Her Today,” its influence is undeniable. It became an anthem for anyone who has tried, and failed, to outrun their own heartbreak. The song has been featured in countless country music playlists and remains a touchstone for country artists who delve into themes of heartache, loss, and addiction. Its universal themes continue to connect with audiences decades later, showcasing how timeless George’s music is.
Legacy
“If Drinking Don’t Kill Me (Her Memory Will)” is a song that has withstood the test of time, largely due to its unflinching portrayal of grief and self-destruction. George Jones brought a level of vulnerability to the song that transformed it from just another heartbreak ballad into something more profound. Today, it stands as one of the most emotionally raw songs in George Jones’ catalog, a reminder of how deeply country music can cut to the core of the human experience.
Conclusion
George Jones had a unique ability to convey the pain of life through his music, and “If Drinking Don’t Kill Me (Her Memory Will)” is a perfect example of that gift. It’s not just a song about drinking; it’s a song about the things we do to escape our memories, our regrets, and our heartaches—and how those things often catch up to us. For anyone looking to explore George Jones’ music, this song is a must-listen. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to his work, this track captures the essence of his genius.
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