Introduction:
If Drinkin’ Don’t Kill Me (Her Memory Will) is a poignant country ballad performed by the legendary George Jones. Released in 1981 as part of his album I Am What I Am, the song quickly became a signature piece in Jones’ extensive discography. Known for his raw emotional delivery and distinctive vocal style, “If Drinkin’ Don’t Kill Me” showcased Jones’ ability to convey deep-seated heartache and despair with unparalleled authenticity.
The song, penned by Harlan Sanders and Rick Beresford, delves into the devastating aftermath of a failed relationship. Jones’ portrayal of a broken man grappling with alcoholism and the enduring pain of lost love resonated profoundly with audiences. Produced by Billy Sherrill, a frequent collaborator of Jones, the track’s stripped-down arrangement allowed the singer’s vocals to take center stage, creating an intimate and emotionally charged listening experience.
While “If Drinkin’ Don’t Kill Me” didn’t achieve the same commercial heights as some of Jones’ earlier hits, it solidified his status as a master storyteller and interpreter of country music. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its raw honesty and emotional impact, making it a cornerstone of Jones’ legacy.
Video:
Lyrics:
“If Drinkin’ Don’t Kill Me (Her Memory Will)”
The bars are all closed
It’s four in the morning
Must have shut ’em all down
By the shape that I’m in
I lay my head on the wheel
And the horn begins honking
The whole neighborhood knows
That I’m home drunk again[Chorus:]
And if drinking 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
And if drinking don’t kill me
Her memory willThese old bones they move slow
But so sure of their footsteps
As I trip on the floor
And lightly touch down
Lord it’s been ten bottles
Since I tried to forget her
But the memory still lingers
Lying here on the ground[Chorus:]
And if drinking 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 drinking don’t kill me
Her memory will…