Introduction
I still remember the first time I heard George Jones’s soulful voice singing “If Drinkin’ Don’t Kill Me (Her Memory Will)” on a dusty jukebox in a small-town diner. The raw emotion in his voice captured the pain of lost love in a way that resonated deeply with me and everyone else in that quiet room.
About The Composition
- Title: If Drinkin’ Don’t Kill Me (Her Memory Will)
- Composer: Billy Sherrill, Norro Wilson, and Rick Hall
- Premiere Date: November 1980
- Album: I Am What I Am
- Genre: Country
Background
“If Drinkin’ Don’t Kill Me (Her Memory Will)” is a poignant country song recorded by George Jones, one of the most influential figures in country music. Released in November 1980 as part of his album I Am What I Am, the song was written by the trio of Billy Sherrill, Norro Wilson, and Rick Hall. This period marked a significant comeback for Jones, who was battling personal demons, including alcoholism and the aftermath of his tumultuous marriage to Tammy Wynette.
The song delves into the depths of heartbreak and the coping mechanisms people often turn to when faced with overwhelming sorrow. It was well-received by both critics and fans, reaching number 8 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart. The authenticity of Jones’s performance brought a new level of emotional depth to country music, cementing the song’s place in his illustrious repertoire.
Musical Style
The musical arrangement of “If Drinkin’ Don’t Kill Me (Her Memory Will)” is quintessential country, featuring traditional instruments like the steel guitar, fiddle, and piano. The melody is hauntingly beautiful, with a slow tempo that accentuates the song’s somber mood. Jones’s vocal delivery is heartfelt and raw, employing subtle inflections that convey deep pain and resignation. The simplicity of the composition allows the emotional weight of the lyrics to take center stage.
Lyrics
The lyrics tell the story of a man drowning in sorrow after a lost love, using alcohol as a means to escape his lingering memories. Lines like “If drinkin’ don’t kill me, her memory will” encapsulate the dual struggle of physical decline and emotional torment. The song explores themes of despair, loneliness, and the destructive cycles people fall into when trying to numb their pain. It’s a candid portrayal that many listeners find relatable, reflecting the harsh realities of coping with loss.
Performance History
Over the years, “If Drinkin’ Don’t Kill Me (Her Memory Will)” has been covered by various artists, attesting to its lasting impact on the country music genre. Notable performances include those by Dwight Yoakam and Jon Pardi, who have paid tribute to Jones by incorporating the song into their live shows. The original recording remains a staple on country radio stations and is often highlighted in retrospectives of George Jones’s career.
Cultural Impact
The song has influenced countless artists who admire its unflinching honesty and emotional depth. It’s frequently cited as a prime example of the “hard country” style that deals openly with personal struggles and societal issues. The track has appeared in films and television shows that aim to capture the essence of rural America and the complexities of the human condition.
Legacy
“If Drinkin’ Don’t Kill Me (Her Memory Will)” stands as a testament to George Jones’s profound ability to connect with listeners on an emotional level. Its enduring popularity underscores the song’s relevance, as themes of love, loss, and coping continue to resonate across generations. The song not only solidified Jones’s comeback in the 1980s but also left an indelible mark on the landscape of country music.
Conclusion
Listening to this song feels like sharing a moment of vulnerability with a close friend. George Jones’s evocative performance invites us to confront our own memories and the ways we cope with heartache. I encourage you to listen to the original track from the I Am What I Am album to experience its full emotional impact. For live performances, seek out recordings from his later concerts, where his seasoned voice adds even more depth to this timeless piece
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