Introduction:
“Wrong’s What I Do Best” by George Jones is a standout country track from his 1992 album Walls Can Fall. Released as a single in 1993, the song showcases Jones’ deep connection to traditional country music, blending themes of self-reflection and vulnerability with his signature rich vocal style. The song was penned by Dickey Lee, Freddy Weller, and Mike Campbell, and its poignant lyrics revolve around a character acknowledging their tendency to make mistakes and embracing their flaws.
The Walls Can Fall album marked a notable phase in Jones’ career, during which he was experiencing a resurgence in popularity after years of personal struggles. The album itself was produced by Emory Gordy Jr. and contains several hits that reaffirm Jones’ legendary status in the country music world. “Wrong’s What I Do Best” follows the classic honky-tonk tradition, filled with raw emotion, relatable storytelling, and a touch of humor as the protagonist confesses to repeatedly taking the wrong path in life. Its blend of honesty and heartache strikes a chord with listeners who appreciate the soul-baring nature of country music.
The song is emblematic of Jones’ ability to convey deep emotions with simplicity and sincerity, a quality that made him one of the most revered figures in country music. While not his most commercially successful single, it cemented his status as a master of conveying the complexities of the human condition through music, making it a beloved track for fans of the genre.
Video:
Lyrics:
“Wrong’s What I Do Best”
Some men look for diamonds
Some men look for gold
I’m just trying to find myself
Before I get too old
Different people have their ways
Of measuring success
Maybe it’s not the right way
But wrong’s what I do bestWell I walk the straight and narrow
Straight to where I don’t belong
One time I even tried to love one woman
But that didn’t last too long
If my ship is docking in the east
You can bet I’d be heading west
Right in the wrong direction
‘Cause wrong’s what I do bestWhen I’m down and out
And can’t get up
I feel right at home
When I got the blues
And it’s all bad news
That’s when I’m in my comfort zoneBut, If they held a loser’s playoff
There’d be no contest
‘Cause I’ve had lots of practice
And wrong’s what I do bestIf my ship is docking in the east
You can bet I’d be heading west
I’m right in the wrong direction
‘Cause wrong’s what I do bestRight in the wrong direction
‘Cause wrong’s what I do best…