“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
There’s something profoundly symbolic about the right hand and the left hand. For most of us, the right hand is considered strong and capable, while the left hand, though less dominant, plays a complementary role. George Jones’ “The Right Left Hand” takes that symbolism and transforms it into a deeply emotional narrative about commitment and second chances. When Jones released this track, he was already a towering figure in country music, having lived through many personal ups and downs. But this song, in particular, offered a glimpse into a tender moment of his life—his marriage to his fourth wife, Nancy Sepulvado. As listeners, we get to hear a man who’s seen it all, acknowledging that true love can sometimes come from unexpected places.
About The Composition
- Title: The Right Left Hand
- Composer: Dennis Knutson, A.L. “Doodle” Owens
- Premiere Date: November 1986
- Album/Opus/Collection: Wine Colored Roses (George Jones)
- Genre: Country
Background
“The Right Left Hand” was a track released as part of George Jones’ 1986 album Wine Colored Roses. Written by Dennis Knutson and A.L. “Doodle” Owens, the song captures the sentiment of finding solace and redemption in a relationship later in life. For Jones, who had been through multiple marriages and well-documented struggles with substance abuse, his marriage to Nancy represented a turning point. The song uses the imagery of a wedding ring on the left hand to signify commitment, but the “right” left hand refers to finding the right person to spend one’s life with.
Initially, the song was met with praise for its heartfelt lyrics and Jones’ masterful delivery. It didn’t climb the charts to great heights, but it became a beloved song for George Jones fans, particularly because of its personal connection to his life. The sincerity in Jones’ voice is unmistakable, giving the song a deeper resonance with his audience.
Musical Style
Musically, “The Right Left Hand” is a traditional country ballad, filled with slow, deliberate guitar strums and Jones’ signature vocal style. The instrumentation is sparse but effective, with gentle steel guitar slides complementing Jones’ voice. The melody is simple but beautiful, allowing the emotion of the lyrics to take center stage. Jones’ performance of the song is restrained yet heartfelt, showcasing his ability to convey deep emotion without over-embellishment. It’s this simplicity that makes the song so effective. His phrasing and the slight quiver in his voice draw the listener in, making them feel every word.
Lyrics Analysis
The lyrics of “The Right Left Hand” revolve around love and the lasting commitment symbolized by a wedding ring. The song tells the story of a man who has finally found the right person to share his life with. It’s a song of redemption, as Jones sings about how this “right” left hand has given him hope and stability. The themes of love, loyalty, and redemption are deeply personal, particularly for Jones, who had been through turbulent relationships before finding lasting love with Nancy. The song becomes a heartfelt vow, not only to the woman he loves but also to himself—to be a better man.
Performance History
When Wine Colored Roses was released in 1986, Jones was already considered one of the greatest country singers of all time. “The Right Left Hand” was released as a single and reached #8 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart. While it wasn’t Jones’ biggest hit, it became a fan favorite and was seen as a reflection of his personal growth and stability in his later years. Throughout his live performances, the song was cherished by audiences who connected with its message of enduring love and second chances.
Cultural Impact
Although “The Right Left Hand” may not be the most well-known song in Jones’ catalog, its influence can be seen in how it resonates with listeners who have also experienced life’s challenges. The song speaks to the universal theme of finding love and hope after hardship, and its cultural impact lies in its relatability. It’s often viewed as a classic example of a country song that speaks directly to the heart, offering listeners comfort and understanding in their own journeys of love and redemption.
Legacy
George Jones is a legend in country music, and “The Right Left Hand” is one of those songs that stands as a testament to his emotional depth as an artist. It may not have achieved the chart success of some of his other hits, but it remains an essential part of his legacy. Today, the song continues to be appreciated by fans of classic country music, serving as a reminder of Jones’ ability to convey raw emotion through his music. Its message of finding love later in life resonates with audiences across generations, ensuring its place in country music history.
Conclusion
“The Right Left Hand” is more than just a love song—it’s a story of redemption and second chances. Through the voice of George Jones, we hear the tale of a man who’s been through the wringer and has finally found peace in love. The simplicity of the music allows the heartfelt lyrics to shine, and Jones’ delivery brings it all together. If you’ve ever been a fan of Jones or are looking to explore his music, this song is a must-listen. I’d recommend finding a live version or a recording where Jones’ voice truly conveys the weight of his journey and the hope he found in his later years. “The Right Left Hand” is a beautiful reminder that it’s never too late to find the right kind of love.
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Lyrics
I’ve cried a million tears,
Down through the years
Searching for that special one
And the vows I took before,
Were all forever more,
But no matter how I tried they came undone
Then the good Lord finally gave me
A true love of a lady,
Someone who believes in me
And she lets me know each day,
That love is here to stay
I finally found someone who’ll never leave
I put a golden band on the right left hand this time,
And the right left hand put a golden band on mine
When our hair is snowy white,
Time will prove I’m right
I put a golden band on the right left hand this time
I’ll never have to plead
For the love that my heart needs,
She’ll be close enough to touch
And when the nights are long and cold,
She’ll be there to hold,
All dressed up for one more night of love
I put a golden band on the right left hand this time,
And the right left hand put a golden band on mine
When our hair is snowy white,
Time will prove I’m right
I put a golden band on the right left hand this time
I put a golden band on the right left hand this time
The story behind the song is absolutely heartbreaking, and fans are feeling every word