“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
One brisk evening in Nashville, George Jones, already a legend in the making, stumbled into a bar, grappling with the ghosts of his past relationships. This very night, intoxicated not just by alcohol but by a whirlwind of memories, inspired one of his most poignant tracks: “If Drinkin’ Don’t Kill Me (Her Memory Will).”
About The Composition
- Title: If Drinkin’ Don’t Kill Me (Her Memory Will)
- Composer: George Jones
- Premiere Date: 1981
- Album/Opus/Collection: Included in the album “I Am What I Am”
- Genre: Country
Background
This song emerges from a time when George Jones was battling with personal demons and a notorious addiction to alcohol, which heavily influenced his music career. Written by Rick Beresford and Harlan Sanders, the song encapsulates the depth of Jones’ pain and the struggle with his haunting past. Upon its release, it resonated deeply with fans, cementing its place as a classic in Jones’ extensive repertoire.
Musical Style
The track features traditional country instruments, including acoustic guitars, a steel guitar, and a soft pedal bass, creating a melancholic yet resonant sound. The composition leverages Jones’ vocal vulnerability to enhance the emotional gravity of the lyrics, painting a vivid picture of loneliness and despair.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrics depict a man’s struggle with memories of a lost love, which continuously drive him to drink as a form of escape. The haunting refrain, “If drinkin’ don’t kill me, her memory will,” poignantly captures the essence of the song, revealing the intertwined relationship between the melody and its lyrical themes.
Performance History
Since its release, the song has been a staple in country music, covered by several artists and featured in countless concerts. It remains one of the highlights of Jones’ live performances, often receiving acclaim for its heartfelt delivery and emotional depth.
Cultural Impact
The song’s portrayal of heartache and substance abuse reflects broader themes of human vulnerability and coping mechanisms, making it relevant across various cultural contexts. Its inclusion in films and documentaries about country music illustrates its lasting impact on the genre.
Legacy
“If Drinkin’ Don’t Kill Me (Her Memory Will)” continues to resonate with audiences, serving as a raw, unfiltered glimpse into Jones’ life and struggles. It stands as a testament to his ability to transform personal turmoil into profound artistic expression.
Conclusion
Exploring this song offers a window into the soul of George Jones and a deeper understanding of country music’s capacity to convey complex human emotions. I encourage music enthusiasts to delve into this track, perhaps starting with the poignant version from the album “I Am What I Am,” to fully appreciate its depth and beauty.
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