Everyone is taking about the death of country music legend George Jones, who died yesterday at the age of 81. I am glad that Mr. Jones lived long enough to see his work get the respect he deserved. He was the recipient of just about every award and honor in music you could imagine.
George Jones was definitely a survivor. His career and life reached a low-point in the late 1970s. Had he passed away at that time, his legacy likely would've been quite different. His rebirth came in the early 80s, after the release of "He Stopped Loving Her Today". That song won him universal acclaim, and pushed him back to the top of his field.
His spiritual and personal rebirth followed a few years later. He was the last of a breed of country music stars that weren't afraid to cut an album of "sacred" selections. He recorded some great Gospel music.
When the history of country music is written, without a doubt George Jones will be featured prominently. Thank goodness he was able to enjoy the acclaim of his fans and peers during his life.
