Introduction
Imagine sitting in a dimly lit honky-tonk bar, a glass of bourbon in hand, while George Jones’ deep, mournful voice pours out of the jukebox. If Drinkin’ Don’t Kill Me (Her Memory Will) is one of those songs that seems tailor-made for such a scene, delivering a gut-punch of sorrow and relatability. This timeless classic captures the anguish of lost love and the solace sought in a bottle, cementing George Jones’ legendary status in country music history.
About The Composition
- Title: If Drinkin’ Don’t Kill Me (Her Memory Will)
- Composer: Harlan Sanders and Rick Beresford
- Premiere Date: 1980
- Album: I Am What I Am
- Genre: Country (Honky-Tonk Ballad)
Background
Released in 1980 as part of George Jones’ comeback album I Am What I Am, this song quickly became a hallmark of Jones’ career. The album itself was a milestone, featuring Jones’ iconic hit He Stopped Loving Her Today. Written by Harlan Sanders and Rick Beresford, If Drinkin’ Don’t Kill Me (Her Memory Will) epitomizes the emotional depth and raw honesty that defined Jones’ artistry. The song resonated deeply with fans and critics alike, highlighting the struggles of love, heartbreak, and addiction—themes that Jones, known as “The Possum,” often wrestled with in his own life.
Musical Style
The song is a quintessential honky-tonk ballad, featuring a steady, mournful rhythm underscored by steel guitar, piano, and subtle percussion. Jones’ expressive vocal delivery, full of cracks and quivers, enhances the emotional impact of the lyrics. The melody, both haunting and deceptively simple, allows the lyrics’ pain to take center stage. It’s this blend of rawness and musical finesse that makes the song unforgettable.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrics paint a vivid picture of despair, as the narrator wrestles with the dual demons of heartbreak and alcohol. Lines like “If drinkin’ don’t kill me, her memory will” encapsulate the devastating weight of a love lost. The juxtaposition of dark humor and poignant truth reflects a uniquely country approach to storytelling, where pain and resilience often walk hand in hand.
Performance History
Upon its release, the song climbed to #8 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart, solidifying its place as a fan favorite. Over the years, If Drinkin’ Don’t Kill Me (Her Memory Will) has been performed by countless artists in tribute to George Jones, from intimate acoustic renditions to grand stage performances. The song’s enduring popularity ensures its regular presence in country music playlists and live shows.
Cultural Impact
This song captures the essence of classic country music’s ability to speak to universal struggles. Its portrayal of vulnerability has resonated beyond the genre, influencing artists in rock, blues, and Americana. Referenced in pop culture and frequently covered, it underscores George Jones’ influence as a voice of raw human emotion.
Legacy
If Drinkin’ Don’t Kill Me (Her Memory Will) remains a cornerstone of George Jones’ storied catalog. Decades later, its themes of heartbreak and resilience continue to resonate with listeners, proving that great music transcends time. The song stands as a testament to Jones’ unparalleled ability to channel personal pain into art that speaks to millions.
Conclusion
Listening to If Drinkin’ Don’t Kill Me (Her Memory Will) is like sharing a drink with a friend who truly understands your pain. It’s a reminder of the healing power of music, even in the darkest of times. If you haven’t yet experienced this gem, start with the original recording from I Am What I Am or check out live performances where Jones’ emotive delivery shines even brighter. It’s a song that will leave a lasting impression, just like George Jones himself
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