“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
There’s a certain bittersweetness in nostalgia, especially when it’s wrapped up in music. George Jones, often called the greatest country singer of all time, had a way of capturing that melancholy with a voice that could draw tears from a stone. “The King Is Gone (So Are You)” is one of those songs where you feel the ache deep down, a testament to Jones’s unmatched ability to translate emotion into melody.
About The Composition
- Title: The King Is Gone (So Are You)
- Composer: George Jones, Glenn Martin
- Premiere Date: 1989
- Album/Opus/Collection: One Woman Man
- Genre: Country
Background
Released as part of the 1989 album One Woman Man, “The King Is Gone (So Are You)” finds George Jones reflecting on loss in a way that’s both humorous and heart-wrenching. The song was written by Jones and Glenn Martin, and it tells the story of a man drowning his sorrows with a bottle of Jim Beam and the memory of two American icons—Elvis Presley and Fred Flintstone. The song’s narrative, mingling heartbreak with a touch of absurdity, resonated with fans, offering a glimpse of Jones’s ability to mix tragedy with a wink of humor. It was well-received and became a beloved track in Jones’s extensive repertoire.
Musical Style
The musical style of “The King Is Gone (So Are You)” is quintessential George Jones—simple, direct, and heavy with emotion. The song is carried by Jones’s distinctive voice, which swings between tender and tormented. The instrumentation is classic country, featuring steady guitar strums, a gentle drum beat, and subtle piano chords. These elements create a soundscape that is both comforting and aching, perfectly complementing the song’s lyrical content.
Lyrics
The lyrics of “The King Is Gone (So Are You)” are a blend of heartache and wit. The protagonist, left alone after a breakup, finds solace in whiskey and memories. The mention of Elvis Presley, the “King,” and Fred Flintstone adds a layer of dark humor to the sadness, highlighting how people cope with loss in peculiar ways. The lyrics are simple but profound, a hallmark of George Jones’s storytelling ability.
Performance History
“The King Is Gone (So Are You)” has been a staple in George Jones’s live performances, often met with a mix of laughter and tears from the audience. The song’s unique blend of humor and sorrow has made it a memorable part of Jones’s legacy, showcasing his range not just as a singer but as a performer who could convey deep emotion through his music.
Cultural Impact
Though not one of Jones’s biggest hits, “The King Is Gone (So Are You)” has left a mark on country music for its clever storytelling and emotional depth. It’s a song that fans often cite as a favorite for its relatability and Jones’s signature vocal delivery. The song’s references to cultural icons like Elvis and Fred Flintstone also give it a unique place in the intersection of music and pop culture.
Legacy
The legacy of “The King Is Gone (So Are You)” is found in its enduring appeal. It continues to be a song that resonates with those who have experienced loss, showing that even in heartbreak, there can be a sliver of humor and humanity. George Jones’s ability to convey such complex emotions in a simple, three-minute song is a testament to his genius, and this track remains a beloved part of his extensive catalog.
Conclusion
“The King Is Gone (So Are You)” is more than just a country song; it’s a reflection on loss, memory, and the ways we cope with heartache. George Jones’s performance is a masterclass in storytelling, blending humor and sorrow in a way that few can. If you haven’t yet, I encourage you to give this song a listen—preferably with a glass of something strong in hand—and let yourself get lost in the poignant simplicity of George Jones’s voice.
Video
Lyrics
Last night, I broke the seal
On a Jim Beam decanter that looks like Elvis
I soaked the label off a Flintstone Jelly Bean jar
I cleared us off a place on that one little table
That you left us
And pulled me up a big ole piece of floor
I pulled the head off Elvis
Filled Fred up to his pelvis
Yabba-Dabba-Doo, the King is gone
And so are you
‘Round about ten we all got to talking
‘Bout Graceland, Bedrock and such
The conversation finally turned to women
But they said they didn’t get around too much
Elvis said, “find ’em young” and Fred said “old-fashioned girls are fun”
Yabba-Dabba-Doo, the King is gone
And so are you
Later on it finally hit me
That you wouldn’t be a-comin’ home no more
‘Cause this time I know you won’t forgive me
Like all of them other times before
Then I broke Elvis’ nose
Pouring the last drop from his toes
Yabba-Dabba-Doo, the King is gone
And so are you
Yabba-Dabba-Doo, the King is gone
And so are you
Last night, I broke the seal on a Jim Beam decanter
That looks like Elvis
I soaked the label off a Flintstone Jelly Bean jar