George Jones

From ArticleWorld

George Glenn Jones, also known as The Possum, is a country music singer, a legend, and is known for singing songs about grief, emotional struggles, and unhappy love. He is undoubtedly one of the last of his breed: pure country music singers. Ever since the beginning of the 1980’s he has been called the "greatest living country singer"" and the "Rolls-Royce of country singers."

Jones was born on September 12, 1931 in Saratoga, Texas. By the time he was 24, Jones had spent time in the Marines, been married twice, and was ready to become a country singer. Jones would have many obstacles in his way that would often deter his music career. He was one of the best honky-tonk singers of all times, but the way of life that went along with that nearly beat him. He was known for drinking and often drank bourbon all day long. During the 1970’s he began adding cocaine use to his drinking and was accused of beating his wife, shooting at friends, and missing concerts. His alcohol and drug addiction nearly killed him and he ended up in a mental hospital in Alabama until the early 1980’s.

Jones’ first country hit was "Why Baby Why" in 1955, and was followed by "Treasure of Love," "White Lightening", and "Who Shot Sam." He married Tammy Wynette in 1969 and they recorded a series of duets. He also joined the Grand Ole Opry this year. She could not keep him away from alcohol and they divorced in 1975.

Jones started the 80’s with his Grammy winning hit "He Stopped Loving Her Today and "Yesterday’s Wine" with Merle Haggard. He also recorded a duet with Ray Charles, "We Didn’t See A Thing." Other hits that went into the 90’s include "A Few Old Country Boys" with Randy Travis, and his recent "Blues Man" with Dolly Parton. Jones married a fourth time to Nancy Sepulvado. He claims she is the reason he quit drinking, and despite the troubles of his past, Jones is still recording and performing.