Introduction:
“The Right Left Hand” is a song by American country music legend George Jones, released in 1986. It was included on his album Wine Colored Roses, which also came out in the same year. The song is emblematic of George Jones’s deep-rooted presence in the traditional country music genre, reflecting his powerful vocal delivery and emotive storytelling—a combination that had long solidified his status as one of country music’s most significant and influential artists.
The song was released during a period when Jones was enjoying a resurgence in popularity. Throughout the 1980s, he was celebrated not just for his extensive catalog and iconic status but also for his ability to consistently produce music that resonated with both old and new audiences. “The Right Left Hand” falls squarely into this phase of his career, showcasing his timeless appeal and relevance in the country music scene.
Lyrically, “The Right Left Hand” is a heartfelt love song in which Jones reflects on the significance of finding enduring love, suggesting that his right hand, which had been accustomed to certain habits or vices, had finally met the perfect counterpart in a new wedding ring. The song poignantly speaks to themes of redemption, personal growth, and the redemptive power of love, making it a quintessential George Jones narrative.
Musically, the song adheres to a traditional country style, characterized by its smooth melody and rich instrumentation that includes steel guitars and fiddles—an authentic sound that remained a hallmark of Jones’s music. Upon its release, “The Right Left Hand” achieved considerable success, peaking at number 8 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart. This achievement further cemented Jones’s reputation as one of the genre’s leading artists, capable of delivering hits that resonate with audiences across generations.
As part of the Wine Colored Roses album, the song contributed to the album’s overall success, which was praised by critics for its sincerity and emotional depth. “The Right Left Hand” remains a testament to George Jones’s enduring legacy in country music, celebrated for its genuine lyrical content and Jones’s unmistakable vocal prowess.
Video:
Lyrics:
“The Right Left Hand”
I’ve cried a million tears,
Down through the years.
Searching for that special one.
And the vows I took before,
Where all forever more,
But no matter how I tried they came undone.Then the good lord finally gave me
The true love of a lady,
Someone who believes in me.
And she lets me know each day,
That love is here to stay.
I finally found someone who’ll never leave.[Chorus:]
I put a golden band on the right left hand this time,
And the right left hand put a golden band on mine.
When our hair is snowy white,
Time will prove I’m right.
I put a golden band on the right left hand this time.I’ll never have to reach
For the love that my heart needs,
She’ll be close enough to touch.
And when the nights are long and cold,
She’ll be there to hold,
All dressed up for one more night of love.[Chorus:]
I put a golden band on the right left hand this time,
And the right left hand put a golden band on mine.
When our hair is snowy white,
Time will prove I’m right.
I put a golden band on the right left hand this time.I put a golden band on the right left hand this time…