I DON’T NEED YOUR ROCKING CHAIR: Jones’ Attitude Set Into Music

By 1992, George Jones had taken his place as one of the true legends of country music. Since then, he led a career that spanned over six decades.

Jones sold millions of records and obtained a copious amount of awards. He received prestigious honors such as Living Legend Award, Pioneer Award, CMA’s Male Vocalist of the Year, and many more. With such esteemed awards as these, one would think Jones wouldn’t have to worry about staying significant in the country music. But, as the world entered the 90’s he laid low on the radio and country charts. This brought in the creation of the song, “I Don’t Need Your Rockin’ Chair.” The song was a response to those who thought he is incapable of performing anymore.

“I Don’t Need Your Rockin’ Chair” was basically  George Jones’ personal statement. It is a response to the change in the recording system of country music. In 1991, SoundScan was introduced, it was used to report record sales data via barcode scans. This led Nashville country music elites to request more airtime on radios. The new rule for major labels set that an album or single should sell a million to be aired on the radio. This would further mean that other low-selling artists including older country singers will get little chances of being heard. But for Jones, this change can’t let him sit on a rocking chair.

For the love of country music

Jones emphasized in this song that even though the years of his life have passed, he still can produce good music and his appeal to the audience hasn’t cooled down. He also expressed that even if his songs won’t get as much airtime on the radio, or his songs won’t rise to the top of the charts, he will still perform for the love of his fans and country music. And indeed, he continued to share his music up until his dying day.

On the other hand, during The Possum’s 80^th birthday in 2011, he uttered a precious advice to other artists who want to have career longevity as his:

“If you sing songs you love, people know it and know that you are being honest with them.  If you compromise too much and sing what you don’t believe, the fans feel betrayed and they know the difference.”

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