Introduction
There’s something hauntingly human about the raw emotions that country music can evoke, and George Jones’s “If Drinkin’ Don’t Kill Me (Her Memory Will)” is a quintessential example of this. Imagine sitting alone in a dimly lit bar, nursing a drink, and finding solace in the mournful voice of George Jones as he croons about heartbreak and despair. This song captures the vulnerability of loss like no other, making it a timeless anthem for the broken-hearted.
About The Composition
- Title: If Drinkin’ Don’t Kill Me (Her Memory Will)
- Composer: Harlan Sanders and Rick Beresford
- Premiere Date: March 1981
- Album/Opus/Collection: I Am What I Am
- Genre: Country
Background
Released as part of George Jones’s 1981 album I Am What I Am, this song came at a pivotal point in his career. The 1980s marked a resurgence for Jones, whose personal struggles with alcohol and tumultuous relationships mirrored the themes in the song. Written by Harlan Sanders and Rick Beresford, the song delves into the devastating intersection of addiction and heartbreak, a subject Jones understood all too well. Upon its release, the song became an instant hit, peaking at #8 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart. It solidified Jones’s reputation as one of country music’s most compelling storytellers.
Musical Style
The musical arrangement of “If Drinkin’ Don’t Kill Me” is a perfect blend of traditional country elements. Featuring pedal steel guitar, gentle piano lines, and Jones’s signature emotive vocals, the song’s instrumentation mirrors its lyrical sorrow. The slow tempo and melancholic melody emphasize the protagonist’s inner turmoil. Jones’s voice, with its distinct ability to convey deep pain, brings the lyrics to life, making listeners feel the weight of every word.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrics tell a poignant story of a man drowning in grief and using alcohol to cope with the memory of a lost love. Lines like, “If drinkin’ don’t kill me, her memory will,” paint a vivid picture of a life caught in a downward spiral. The recurring theme of love’s destructive power resonates deeply, making it relatable to anyone who has experienced profound loss.
Performance History
This song became one of George Jones’s iconic performances, often included in his live shows. His delivery of the track was so heartfelt that audiences couldn’t help but be moved. Over the years, it has been covered by various artists, each bringing their unique interpretation, but none quite capturing the raw emotion of Jones’s original rendition.
Cultural Impact
“If Drinkin’ Don’t Kill Me (Her Memory Will)” remains a staple in the canon of classic country music. Its themes of love, loss, and self-destruction have made it a favorite in honky-tonks and on jukeboxes nationwide. The song’s cultural relevance extends beyond its genre, influencing subsequent artists and appearing in various media that explore the darker sides of human emotion.
Legacy
Decades after its release, the song continues to resonate with audiences. It’s a reminder of George Jones’s unparalleled ability to transform personal pain into universally relatable art. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its honesty—a trait that defined much of Jones’s career.
Conclusion
“If Drinkin’ Don’t Kill Me (Her Memory Will)” is more than just a song; it’s a masterclass in storytelling and emotional depth. For those who haven’t heard it yet, start with Jones’s original recording and let yourself be immersed in the raw, unfiltered beauty of his voice. This track isn’t just a piece of music—it’s a journey into the soul of country music itself
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