Introduction
Few songs capture the aching duality of heartbreak and self-destruction as vividly as “If Drinkin’ Don’t Kill Me (Her Memory Will)” by George Jones. This hauntingly honest country classic takes listeners deep into the raw vulnerability of loss and coping mechanisms. The song is not just a portrayal of despair; it’s a masterclass in storytelling through music.
About The Composition
- Title: If Drinkin’ Don’t Kill Me (Her Memory Will)
- Composer: Harlan Sanders and Rick Beresford
- Premiere Date: 1981
- Album: I Am What I Am
- Genre: Country
Background
Released as a part of George Jones’s acclaimed 1981 album I Am What I Am, “If Drinkin’ Don’t Kill Me (Her Memory Will)” became an emblem of Jones’s personal struggles and artistry. Written by Harlan Sanders and Rick Beresford, the song was deeply resonant with Jones’s turbulent life, particularly his struggles with alcoholism and heartbreak.
At the time of its release, Jones was making a dramatic comeback. Following years of erratic behavior and public battles with addiction, his return with I Am What I Am marked a pivotal moment in his career. The album also included the Grammy-winning track “He Stopped Loving Her Today,” solidifying Jones’s status as one of country music’s most poignant storytellers. This particular song, however, brought a dark, reflective lens to the experience of loss and coping mechanisms, making it both painful and unforgettable.
Musical Style
“If Drinkin’ Don’t Kill Me (Her Memory Will)” exemplifies the traditional country sound of the early 1980s, with its straightforward instrumentation of guitar, piano, and steel guitar underscoring the emotive power of Jones’s voice.
The structure is simple yet effective, with verses that paint a vivid narrative and a chorus that punches with emotional resonance. The song’s pacing is deliberate, allowing every word to land heavily on the listener. Jones’s trademark vocal phrasing—his ability to convey sorrow with a trembling note or a slight pause—elevates the song’s impact.
Lyrics
The lyrics reflect a man grappling with two unyielding forces: the numbing effects of alcohol and the unrelenting sting of lost love. Lines like:
“If drinkin’ don’t kill me, her memory will”
capture the inescapable nature of his pain. The imagery is stark and unflinching, describing sleepless nights and the futile attempts to drown out heartbreak. The lyrics are as much a confession as they are a cry for help, making them universally relatable to anyone who has faced the aftermath of love lost.
Performance History
As part of I Am What I Am, this song was performed during a high point in Jones’s resurgence. It resonated with fans who had followed his career through its tumultuous ups and downs. The authenticity in Jones’s delivery made it a staple of his live performances, and it remains a fan favorite to this day.
Notably, the song’s inclusion in his comeback album reinforced Jones’s reputation as the “greatest living country singer” of his time.
Cultural Impact
“If Drinkin’ Don’t Kill Me (Her Memory Will)” not only became a staple in Jones’s repertoire but also left a lasting mark on country music. The song’s raw honesty about personal struggles resonated with audiences far and wide, becoming an anthem for those navigating heartbreak and addiction.
Its influence extended beyond country music, as it became a cultural reference point for vulnerability and human frailty. The song’s themes have inspired countless artists to embrace storytelling that doesn’t shy away from life’s darker truths.
Legacy
Decades after its release, “If Drinkin’ Don’t Kill Me (Her Memory Will)” remains a poignant reminder of George Jones’s unparalleled ability to connect with audiences on a deeply emotional level. It is a testament to the power of music to turn personal pain into universal art.
The song continues to be covered by artists and celebrated by fans, ensuring its place in the pantheon of country music classics.
Conclusion
Listening to “If Drinkin’ Don’t Kill Me (Her Memory Will)” is akin to walking a mile in the shoes of someone battling the weight of love lost. George Jones’s voice makes every lyric feel personal, every note a reflection of his soul.
If you haven’t already, take the time to immerse yourself in this masterpiece. For a definitive experience, I recommend Jones’s original recording from I Am What I Am. It’s a piece that will stay with you long after the last note fades, a haunting reminder of both the pain and the beauty of the human condition
Video
Lyrics
[Verse 1]
The bars are all closed, it’s four in the morning
Must have shut ’em all down by the shape that I’m in
I lay my head on the wheel and the horn begins honking
The whole neighborhood knows that I’m home drunk again
[Chorus]
If drinking 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 drinking don’t kill me, her memory will
[Verse 2]
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 memory still lingers lying here on the ground
[Chorus]
If drinking 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 drinking don’t kill me, her memory will