Introduction:
Country music icon Toby Keith delivered a heartfelt tribute to the legendary George Jones during his performance at the 2013 Stagecoach Festival. While Keith is known for his own brand of outlaw country anthems, he took a moment to honor Jones, affectionately nicknamed “The Possum,” by covering two of his most beloved classics: “She Thinks I Still Care” and “White Lightning.”
George Jones, a revered figure in country music, passed away in April 2013. Jones’s career spanned over six decades, and he is celebrated for his powerful vocals, his distinctive phrasing, and his poignant storytelling. His influence on the genre is undeniable, and artists like Toby Keith credit him as a major inspiration.
“She Thinks I Still Care,” released in 1955, became one of Jones’s earliest hits. The song explores the heartache of a failed relationship, with the narrator reflecting on a love that has moved on even though his feelings haven’t. The tune became a country standard, recorded by numerous artists over the years.
“White Lightning,” released in 1959, tells the story of a man struggling with alcoholism, using the metaphor of potent homemade moonshine, or “white lightning,” to depict his addiction. The song struck a chord with many listeners who identified with the themes of despair and self-destruction. “White Lightning” became another signature song for Jones, showcasing both the raw power of his vocals and his talent for conveying complex emotions.
Toby Keith’s decision to perform these George Jones songs at Stagecoach was not just a moment of appreciation for a fellow artist, but a recognition of Jones’s immense contribution to country music. Keith, known for his patriotic anthems and party songs, chose two ballads that stood in contrast to his usual repertoire. This demonstrated his respect for Jones’s artistry and his ability to deliver a powerful performance across genres.
While “She Thinks I Still Care” and “White Lightning” were not originally Toby Keith songs, his renditions during the Stagecoach Festival became a touching tribute that resonated with fans. The performance showed not only Toby Keith’s talent as a performer, but also his deep appreciation for the legacy of George Jones.
Video:
Lyrics:
“She Thinks I Still Care”
(She thinks I still care)
Just because I ask a friend about her
Just because I spoke her name somewhere
Just because I rang her number by mistake today
She thinks I still care
Just because I haunt the same old places
Where the memory of her lingers everywhere
Just because I’m not the happy guy I used to be
She thinks I still care
But if she’s happy thinking I still need her
Then let that silly notion bring her cheer
Oh, how could she ever be so foolish?
Oh, where would she get such an idea?
Just because I ask a friend about her
Just because I spoke her name somewhere
Just because I saw her, then went all to pieces
She thinks I still care
She thinks I still care…
“White Lightning”
He brewed white lightnin till the sun went down
Then he’d fill up a jug and he’d pass it around
Mighty mighty pleasin my pappy’s corn squeezin (whew white lightnin)
Well the G men T men revenoers too searchin for the place where he made his brew
They were lookin tryin’ to book him but my pappy kept on cookin
(Whew white lightnin)Well I asked my old pappy why he called his brew
White lightnin stead of mountain dew
I took a little sip and right away I knew
And my eyes bugged out and my face turned blue
Light has started flashin thunder started krashin (whew white lightnin)
Well the G men T men…
Well a city slicker came and he said I’m tough
I think I want to taste that powerful stuff
He took one slug and he drank it right down I heard him moanin’ as he hit the ground
Mighty mighty pleasin you’r pappy’s corn squeezin (whew white lightnin)
Well the G men T men.