For an iconic and legendary country music superstar like George Jones, born in the small, rural town of Saratoga, Texas, his journey began with a song he penned himself. That very song ignited one of the most historic and celebrated careers in the history of country music.
George Jones entered the world in 1931, growing up in the “Big Thicket,” a densely wooded region just outside Beaumont, Texas. Even as a child, Jones was musically gifted, often singing for his father at odd hours, especially when his father had a bit too much to drink. An often-reprinted black-and-white photo captures a young George strumming a “Gene Autry” , a glimpse into the future of a musical legend.
In the early 1950s, a young George Jones enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. After being honorably discharged, he returned to East Texas and quickly teamed up with a country music duo called “Eddie & Pearl.” During his time with them, Jones played lead guitar for his idol, Hank Williams, when Williams appeared on their radio show. Jones also worked as a disc jockey at radio stations KTXJ in Jasper, Texas, and KRIC in Beaumont.
In 1953, George Jones signed his first recording contract with Starday Records in Houston, Texas. His debut release, “No Money in This Deal,” was a modest local hit. However, Starday stuck with the budding artist, and in 1955, Jones’ recording of “Why Baby Why” began to gain national attention, particularly in the South and Southwest. The song entered the country music charts in October 1955, staying for 18 weeks and peaking at #4. Later, covers by Webb Pierce and Red Sovine took the song to #1, while Hank Locklin’s version reached #9 in early 1956.
Most readers are likely familiar with George Jones’ storied career. Despite the ups and downs—some of which might have ended other careers—Jones endured, as reflected in the title of his autobiography, *I Lived to Tell It All*. According to *Billboard* Magazine, George Jones ranks as the #2 country music artist of all time, just behind Eddy Arnold. Jones placed 168 records on the *Billboard* Country Music Charts from 1955 to 2011, an unparalleled 56-year run marked by consistency and excellence. This remarkable achievement includes his solo work and duets with legends like Tammy Wynette, Merle Haggard, Randy Travis, and Alan Jackson, among others.
George Jones’ recording of “He Stopped Loving Her Today” is widely regarded as the “Greatest Country Music Song of All Time,” and Jones himself is often called the “Greatest Country Music Singer of All Time.” Few would disagree with these accolades.
Despite a well-documented battle with alcohol and drugs, which led to numerous missed shows, Jones ultimately overcame these challenges. He successfully quit drinking and drug use, continuing to perform to sold-out crowds until the very month he passed away. His final concert took place on April 6, 2013, just 20 days before his death on April 26, 2013, at the age of 81.
In many ways, George Jones personified country music. Nicknamed “The Possum”—a moniker he initially disliked but later embraced—Jones lived to receive numerous honors, including inductions into multiple halls of fame. He earned the respect of his peers, both those who came before him and those who followed in his footsteps.
There will never be another George Jones. His unparalleled career all began with a song he wrote himself.
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