Introduction
There’s a saying in country music: “When life hurts, sing about it.” For George Jones, this wasn’t just a saying—it was a way of life. “If Drinkin’ Don’t Kill Me (Her Memory Will)” is a song that embodies this philosophy, weaving heartache and survival into a poignant narrative that resonates deeply with anyone who’s ever loved and lost. The song, a testament to Jones’ ability to transform personal pain into universal truth, is a classic that continues to touch hearts decades after its release.
About The Composition
- Title: If Drinkin’ Don’t Kill Me (Her Memory Will)
- Composer: Harlan Sanders, Rick Beresford
- Premiere Date: November 1980
- Album/Opus/Collection: I Am What I Am
- Genre: Country
Background
“If Drinkin’ Don’t Kill Me (Her Memory Will)” was written by Harlan Sanders and Rick Beresford and recorded by George Jones in 1980. The song was part of his album I Am What I Am, an album that marked a major comeback in Jones’ career. The early ’80s were a tumultuous time for Jones, who was battling personal demons, including substance abuse and the breakdown of his marriage to Tammy Wynette. This song, with its raw emotion and straightforward lyrics, captured the essence of Jones’ struggles and his ability to channel them into his music. Upon its release, the song was met with critical acclaim and became a significant hit, solidifying its place in country music history.
Musical Style
The song is classic country in its purest form, characterized by its honky-tonk piano, pedal steel guitar, and Jones’ soulful vocals. The arrangement is simple yet effective, allowing the emotional weight of the lyrics to take center stage. Jones’ delivery, with its blend of sorrow and resignation, amplifies the impact of the song, making it a powerful expression of heartache and despair. The musical structure follows a traditional country ballad format, with a focus on storytelling through the lyrics and melody.
Lyrics
The lyrics of “If Drinkin’ Don’t Kill Me (Her Memory Will)” tell the story of a man overwhelmed by the memory of a lost love. The pain of this memory drives him to drink, but he realizes that no amount of alcohol can numb the heartbreak. The chorus is particularly poignant, capturing the duality of his struggle—while the drinking might be slowly killing him, it’s the memory of her that will ultimately be his undoing. The lyrics are simple yet profound, reflecting the timeless theme of love and loss that is central to much of Jones’ work.
Performance History
Since its release, “If Drinkin’ Don’t Kill Me (Her Memory Will)” has become one of George Jones’ signature songs. It reached number 8 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart, further cementing Jones’ reputation as one of the greatest country singers of all time. Over the years, the song has been covered by various artists, but none have captured the raw emotion of the original like Jones. His performances of the song, both in the studio and live, are legendary, with each rendition bringing out a new shade of emotion.
Cultural Impact
The song has had a significant impact on country music and culture, embodying the genre’s ability to convey deep, personal emotions through simple yet powerful lyrics. It has been referenced in numerous other songs, and its themes of heartache and survival continue to resonate with listeners today. The song’s influence extends beyond music, often cited in discussions of the struggles associated with addiction and the enduring power of memory.
Legacy
“If Drinkin’ Don’t Kill Me (Her Memory Will)” remains an enduring classic in the country music canon. Its timeless message, combined with Jones’ unforgettable performance, ensures that it continues to touch the hearts of new generations of listeners. The song is a testament to the power of music to express the deepest of human emotions and serves as a reminder of George Jones’ unparalleled contribution to country music.
Conclusion
Listening to “If Drinkin’ Don’t Kill Me (Her Memory Will)” is like sitting down with an old friend who understands your pain and shares in it. George Jones’ ability to convey such deep emotion through his music is what makes this song a classic. I highly recommend giving it a listen, whether you’re familiar with Jones’ work or discovering it for the first time. And if you’re looking for the definitive version, Jones’ original recording is the one to go for—it’s an experience that stays with you long after the last note has faded
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