“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
In the world of country music, few artists have captured the raw emotion and heartache of life like George Jones. I remember the first time I heard “These Days (I Barely Get By).” It was during a quiet evening, the kind where the weight of the world seems to press a little harder on your shoulders. The song’s somber melody and Jones’s aching voice struck a chord deep within me, reminding me of the times when life felt like an uphill battle. This song isn’t just music—it’s a shared experience of struggle and perseverance, and it resonates with anyone who’s ever faced tough times.
About The Composition
- Title: These Days (I Barely Get By)
- Composer: George Jones
- Premiere Date: April 1974
- Album/Opus/Collection: “The Grand Tour”
- Genre: Country, Honky Tonk
Background
“These Days (I Barely Get By)” is a poignant track from George Jones’s 1974 album, The Grand Tour. Written during a period of personal turmoil, Jones penned this song as a reflection of his own struggles. The early 1970s were a challenging time for Jones, marked by his battles with addiction and the strain on his personal life. This song, like many of Jones’s works, blurs the line between the artist and the art, offering listeners a glimpse into the deeply personal aspects of his life.
The song was released as a single and immediately resonated with fans who could relate to its themes of heartache and survival. While it didn’t top the charts like some of his other hits, “These Days (I Barely Get By)” remains a significant piece in Jones’s repertoire, celebrated for its emotional depth and sincerity.
Musical Style
Musically, “These Days (I Barely Get By)” is classic George Jones, steeped in the honky-tonk tradition that defined much of his career. The song features a simple yet haunting melody, carried by Jones’s unmistakable voice. The instrumentation is minimal but effective, with a steady rhythm that underscores the song’s themes of persistence and endurance. Jones’s use of minor chords and slow tempo enhances the song’s melancholic atmosphere, drawing the listener into the depths of its sorrow.
The structure of the song is straightforward, with verses that build towards a chorus that feels like a sigh of resignation. It’s a perfect match for the lyrics, which explore the painful realities of life with an unflinching honesty that only George Jones could deliver.
Lyrics Analysis
The lyrics of “These Days (I Barely Get By)” are a stark portrayal of a man at the end of his rope. The song tells the story of someone who is struggling to keep going in the face of overwhelming challenges. The chorus, “These days I barely get by / I want to give up, lay down, and die,” captures the essence of despair, yet there’s also a sense of resilience in the verses, as the narrator continues to push through despite everything.
The themes of heartache, loss, and endurance are central to the song, reflecting Jones’s own life experiences. The lyrics are deeply personal, yet universal, making the song relatable to anyone who has ever faced hardship.
Performance History
Since its release, “These Days (I Barely Get By)” has been performed by Jones in numerous concerts, often as a reminder of the darker periods in his life. The song’s raw emotion and honest portrayal of struggle have made it a favorite among fans, and it remains a staple in the George Jones catalog.
Notable performances of the song include Jones’s live renditions during the late 1970s, where his personal connection to the lyrics was evident in every note he sang. Over the years, the song has also been covered by various artists who admire Jones’s ability to convey deep emotion through his music.
Cultural Impact
While “These Days (I Barely Get By)” may not have achieved the same commercial success as some of George Jones’s other hits, its impact on country music is undeniable. The song has been praised for its honesty and vulnerability, qualities that have influenced countless other artists in the genre. Its themes of struggle and perseverance continue to resonate with audiences, making it a timeless piece of music that transcends its era.
In popular culture, the song has been featured in films and television shows that explore themes of hardship and survival, further cementing its place in the American musical landscape.
Legacy
The enduring importance of “These Days (I Barely Get By)” lies in its ability to connect with listeners on a deeply personal level. Decades after its release, the song continues to be a source of comfort for those going through tough times, reminding them that they are not alone in their struggles. George Jones’s legacy as a master of conveying emotion through music is epitomized in this track, which remains a powerful testament to his talent and humanity.
Conclusion
“These Days (I Barely Get By)” is more than just a song; it’s a reflection of life’s challenges and the resilience it takes to keep moving forward. George Jones’s heartfelt performance captures the essence of struggle and survival, making it a piece that continues to resonate with listeners today. I encourage you to listen to this song and allow its raw emotion to touch you as it has touched so many others. For a truly moving experience, seek out Jones’s live performances, where his connection to the lyrics brings an added depth to this already powerful piece.
Video
Lyrics
I woke up this morning aching with pain
Don’t think I can work, but I’ll try
The car’s in the shop so I thumbed all the way
Oh, these days I barely get by
I walked home from work and it rained all the way
My wife left and didn’t say why
She laid all our bills on the desk in the hall
Oh, these days I barely get by
Put my only two dollars on my favorite horse
He lost by a nose and I cried
Oh, my boss says come winter, we’ll all be laid off
Oh, these days I barely get by
These days I barely get by
I want to give up, lay down and die
Worst of all was when she told me goodbye
Whoa, these days I barely get by
Whoa, these days, one barely gets by