“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
Every time George Jones’s voice pours out of the speakers, it’s like sitting down with an old friend who knows all about heartache and hard times. His song “If Drinking Don’t Kill Me (Her Memory Will)” is no exception, capturing the raw emotions of love, loss, and coping with grief in a way that only Jones can. This song stands as a testament to Jones’s ability to connect deeply with his listeners, making them feel every ounce of his pain and resilience.
About The Composition
- Title: If Drinking Don’t Kill Me (Her Memory Will)
- Composer: Harlan Sanders and Rick Beresford
- Premiere Date: 1980
- Album/Opus/Collection: I Am What I Am
- Genre: Country
Background
“If Drinking Don’t Kill Me (Her Memory Will)” was penned by Harlan Sanders and Rick Beresford and became one of George Jones’s iconic hits when it was released in 1980. It was part of his album “I Am What I Am,” which marked a significant period in Jones’s career, highlighting his comeback and re-establishment as a leading figure in country music. The song’s inception is rooted in the classic country theme of heartache and coping mechanisms, which resonated deeply with Jones’s own life experiences. At the time of its release, the song was met with widespread acclaim, both for its lyrical poignancy and Jones’s emotive delivery, solidifying its place in his repertoire as a classic.
Musical Style
The musical style of “If Drinking Don’t Kill Me (Her Memory Will)” is quintessentially country, featuring traditional instrumentation like steel guitars, fiddles, and a steady rhythm that underscores the song’s melancholic theme. The song’s structure is straightforward, allowing Jones’s voice to take center stage. His vocal delivery, characterized by its deep, resonant tone and emotive inflections, drives the song’s impact, making listeners feel the sorrow and desperation in every line.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrics of “If Drinking Don’t Kill Me (Her Memory Will)” explore themes of heartbreak and the struggle to move on from a lost love. The chorus poignantly captures the essence of the song: the narrator’s internal battle between the numbing effects of alcohol and the haunting memories of a past relationship. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a man on the brink, using alcohol as a temporary escape from his enduring emotional pain.
Performance History
Since its release, “If Drinking Don’t Kill Me (Her Memory Will)” has been performed countless times by George Jones and has become a staple in his concert repertoire. Notable performances include live renditions on television shows and at major country music festivals, where Jones’s heartfelt delivery consistently left audiences spellbound. The song has been covered by various artists, each bringing their own interpretation while paying homage to Jones’s original.
Cultural Impact
“If Drinking Don’t Kill Me (Her Memory Will)” has had a significant impact on country music and beyond. Its raw depiction of heartache and coping mechanisms has influenced countless artists and songwriters, helping to shape the genre’s narrative style. The song has also appeared in various media, including films and television shows, often used to underscore scenes of deep emotional turmoil and resilience.
Legacy
The enduring legacy of “If Drinking Don’t Kill Me (Her Memory Will)” lies in its timeless appeal and emotional depth. Even decades after its release, the song continues to resonate with audiences, offering solace to those experiencing similar heartaches. It remains a powerful example of George Jones’s unparalleled ability to convey deep emotional truths through his music.
Conclusion
Reflecting on “If Drinking Don’t Kill Me (Her Memory Will),” it’s clear why this song holds a special place in the hearts of country music fans. Its poignant lyrics and Jones’s heartfelt delivery make it a timeless piece that continues to touch listeners deeply. I encourage everyone to delve into this song, perhaps starting with the original recording by George Jones, to fully appreciate the depth and emotion it conveys. For those looking to explore further, live performances and covers by other artists offer additional layers of interpretation and connection to this classic.
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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