Today marks George Jones’ 88th birthday. Six years have passed since he last celebrated his birthday with us, but I know our greetings will still be relevant to him. With this, let us greet him a Happy Birthday!
George Jones’ Life
George Glenn Jones professionally known as George Jones was born in Saratoga, Texas on September 12, 1931. He was one of the eight children raised in a poor family. His father was an alcoholic who became violent when drunk. Jones, together with his siblings, only felt their father’s love when he was sober, but most of the time, they become prisoners when he was drunk.
He then wrote the story of his life in his autobiography called I Lived to Tell It All. Despite all the hardships that came across their lives, they still managed to have a great time together. Music is what connected them all. Moreover, Jones and his family were inspired by the Carter Family’s songs.
At an early age, Jones’ father gave him a guitar. He taught himself how to play it and his talent began to come out. He experienced performing on the streets to earn money for his family. In the later years, after a brief stint in the Military, he started to pursue his musical career.
George Jones: The Legendary Country Artist
Jones entered into the country music industry in 1953. He was one of the most successful country artists in 1953 to 2013. His first hit single was the 1955 song “Why Baby Why.” After the song became a success, he continued recording hit songs as a solo artist. He also made a duet performance with some of Country’s biggest stars, most notably Tammy Wynette.
Whatever problems, disappointments, and failures that happened in his life, Jones amassed an impressive musical legacy that earned him a 2012 Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, among many other honors.
However, George Jones died in 2013, at the age of 81.
Despite his absence, his existence can still be felt through the remarkable hit singles he recorded.
Here Are Some of the Remarkable Hits of George Jones:
1. White Lightning
It is the very first number 1 hit for George Jones penned by J.P. Richardson “Big Bopper.” George’s version was released in 1959 from his album, White Lightning and Other Favorites.
“White Lightning” brought huge success on Jones’ musical career. In fact, the song peaked at the number 73 spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
2. Tender Years
This ballad song was penned by George Jones and Darrell Edwards. George’s version was released in 1961 from his album, Greatest Hits.
“Tender Year” became Jones’ second number 1 hit single. In addition, the song peaked at the number 75 spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
3. She Thinks I Still Care
It is a ballad song penned by Dickey Lee and Steve Duffy. George’s version of the song was released in April 1962 from his album, Hits by George.
Upon its release, “She Thinks I Still Care” immediately became number 1 on the US Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. Since it became popular, many music artists have recorded their own version of the song.
4. He Stopped Loving Her Today
It was a popular song in the ’80s penned by Bobby Braddock and Curly Putman. George’s version of the song was released in April 1980 from his album, I Am What I Am. Country fans and music critics considered this song as George’s greatest hit song of all time.
Upon its release, “He Stopped Loving Her Today” peaked at the number 1 spot on the US Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and at number 2 on Canadian RPM Country Tracks chart.
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