Introduction:
“If Drinking Don’t Kill Me (Her Memory Will)” is a classic country song by George Jones, released in 1980. The track is a prominent piece from Jones’s album I Am What I Am, which came out in September of the same year. This song is rooted deeply in the traditional country genre, characterized by its heartfelt lyrics, twangy instrumentation, and Jones’s distinctive vocal delivery.
Written by Harlan Sanders and Rick Beresford, “If Drinking Don’t Kill Me (Her Memory Will)” explores themes of heartache, loss, and self-destruction, common in many of Jones’s works. It reflects a time in Jones’s life marked by personal struggles, particularly with alcohol. The song tells the story of a man attempting to drown the sorrow of a lost love in alcohol, only to find that the pain of the memory is as deadly as the drinking itself. The raw, confessional nature of the lyrics, combined with Jones’s emotionally charged performance, resonated deeply with fans and critics alike, earning it a place in country music history.
Upon its release, the song achieved significant success. It reached No. 8 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart, becoming one of Jones’s numerous Top 10 hits. The album I Am What I Am, which also features the legendary track “He Stopped Loving Her Today,” was a turning point in Jones’s career, revitalizing his status as one of the most influential voices in country music. The album itself went on to achieve multi-platinum status, underscoring Jones’s enduring appeal and the song’s role in his musical comeback.
“If Drinking Don’t Kill Me (Her Memory Will)” remains a testament to George Jones’s ability to convey profound emotional depth through music. It is regarded not only as a classic in his discography but also as a poignant representation of the honky-tonk subgenre of country music. The song’s honest portrayal of pain and resilience continues to captivate listeners, solidifying its status as a timeless country standard.