If Drinkin’ Don’t Kill Me – George Jones

Introduction:

“If Drinkin’ Don’t Kill Me (Her Memory Will)” is a classic country song recorded by George Jones and released in November 1980. Written by Harlan Sanders and Rick Beresford, the song was featured on Jones’ comeback album I Am What I Am, which helped to reinvigorate his career during a tumultuous period. At the time, Jones was struggling with personal issues, including substance abuse and the emotional fallout from his divorce from fellow country star Tammy Wynette. These real-life challenges are deeply reflected in the raw, emotional delivery of the song.

Musically, the track embodies traditional country with its honky-tonk piano and pedal steel guitar, paired with Jones’ soulful vocals. The lyrics tell the poignant story of a man trying to drown the memory of a lost love in alcohol, but realizing that the pain of heartbreak is even more devastating than the toll of drinking. This theme of love, loss, and self-destruction resonated strongly with audiences, making the song a significant hit, peaking at No. 8 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart.

The song’s success and emotional depth solidified its place as one of Jones’ signature pieces, and it has remained a standout in his extensive catalog. It captures the essence of Jones’ artistry—his ability to convey deep personal struggle through music. Over the years, “If Drinkin’ Don’t Kill Me” has continued to be celebrated as a timeless expression of heartache and resilience in country music​.

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 will

These 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…