Frank Sinatra once called him “the second best white male singer.” Of course, there is no doubt about the fact that he meant second best to Frank Sinatra, himself ... In turn, Johnny Cash, once was asked who his favorite singer was—his answer was, “You mean besides George Jones?” As a matter of fact George Jones is often cited as the finest vocalist in the history of country music.
In his Country Music, USA, Bill C. Malone wrote: “For the two or three minutes consumed by a song, Jones immerses himself so completely in its lyrics, and in the mood it conveys, that the listener can scarcely avoid becoming similarly involved.”
In January this year the Grammy Hall of Fame honored George Jones by inducting his 1980 hit, "He Stopped Loving Her Today" into the Grammy Hall of Fame.
In the video, George is performing a moving rendition of Conway Twitty’s hit song “Hello Darlin’,” shortly after his death. Conway was one of the United States' most successful country music artists of ever. Dolly Parton, Johnny Cash & June Carter-Cash are among the audience.
Country music fan, eh? Check out Lucinda Williams for the next generation of country musicians.
ReplyDeleteYeah, it’s an old story. I love Country music because of its calming, relaxing properties. I must admit that Lucille Williams—what a great surname for a Country musician!—is a very talented singer, but her (rock) sound and style aren’t for me. I guess I am an old-fashioned conservative …
ReplyDeleteAh, gothca. I know what you mean. Although the sound may be relaxing but the lyrics of Johnny Cash, George Jones or Merle Haggard can be pretty dark and stark.
ReplyDeleteTrue, sometimes the lyrics can be pretty dark and stark, but this is just what I mean when I speak of "calming, relaxing properties." Should their lyrics be not (sometimes) so harsh and desolate, I would find them too Nashville-style and not so much attractive for me—the ''Outlaw country'' struck me when I was on my way to Damascus (as shown by the next post). Thanks for giving me the opportunity to clear myself up on this (and to recall those good old days …). So long.
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