There’s something profoundly moving about a song that encapsulates the depths of human despair while offering a relatable solace. The first time I heard George Jones’s “If Drinkin’ Don’t Kill Me (Her Memory Will),” I was struck by its raw honesty and the timeless portrayal of heartache it presented.
About The Composition
- Title: If Drinkin’ Don’t Kill Me (Her Memory Will)
- Composer: Harlan Sanders and Rick Beresford
- Premiere Date: December 1980
- Album: I Am What I Am
- Genre: Country
Background
“If Drinkin’ Don’t Kill Me (Her Memory Will)” is a poignant country ballad recorded by the legendary George Jones. Released in December 1980 as part of his album I Am What I Am, the song captures the turmoil of a man grappling with the lingering pain of lost love. Written by Harlan Sanders and Rick Beresford, the piece emerged during a period when Jones was experiencing personal and professional resurgence.
The early 1980s marked a significant time in Jones’s career. After battling personal demons and facing a decline in his career, the release of I Am What I Am signaled a powerful comeback. The song resonated with many listeners, reaching number 8 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart. Its authentic portrayal of sorrow and coping mechanisms struck a chord, cementing its place in country music history.
Musical Style
The composition is characterized by its traditional country instrumentation, featuring steel guitars and a steady rhythm section that underscores the song’s melancholic mood. George Jones’s soulful vocals bring a depth of emotion to the piece, utilizing his signature vocal quivers and timing to convey the weight of the lyrics. The simplicity of the arrangement allows the raw sentiment of the song to take center stage, highlighting the universal themes of loss and desperation.
Lyrics
The lyrics delve into the struggles of a man attempting to drown his sorrows in alcohol to forget a past love. The stark imagery and honest confession present a narrative that is both personal and universal. The song doesn’t glamorize drinking but rather portrays it as a desperate escape from emotional pain. This candid depiction adds to the song’s authenticity and emotional impact.
Performance History
Since its release, “If Drinkin’ Don’t Kill Me (Her Memory Will)” has been a staple in George Jones’s repertoire and has been covered by various artists over the years. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its powerful storytelling and emotional resonance. Notable performances include live renditions by Jones that often left audiences deeply moved, further solidifying his reputation as one of country music’s most emotive vocalists.
Cultural Impact
The song has influenced countless artists within the country genre, serving as a benchmark for storytelling and emotional delivery. Its themes have found their way into other media, including references in films and television shows that explore similar narratives of love and loss. The piece stands as a reflection of the human condition, transcending its genre to touch a broader audience.
Legacy
“If Drinkin’ Don’t Kill Me (Her Memory Will)” remains a significant work in George Jones’s legacy and in country music as a whole. Its honest exploration of heartache continues to resonate with new generations of listeners. The song exemplifies the enduring power of music to convey deep emotional truths and offers a timeless reflection on coping with loss.
Conclusion
Listening to this song is a poignant experience that reminds us of the complexities of the human heart. George Jones’s heartfelt delivery makes it more than just a song—it’s a narrative of struggle and vulnerability. I encourage anyone who appreciates authentic storytelling to explore this piece. A recommended recording is the original track from the album I Am What I Am, where Jones’s performance captures the essence of the song’s profound message
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