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· Cratewise Editorial
“'He Stopped Loving Her Today' is widely considered the greatest country song ever recorded. Jones's voice cracks with real emotion. The production is pure Nashville craft.”
George Jones (1931-2013) was one of country music's most influential and prolific vocalists, known for his distinctive voice and emotional depth. Rising to prominence in the 1950s, Jones recorded for multiple labels including Starday, Mercury, and RCA, establishing himself as a cornerstone of honky-tonk and traditional country music. His career spanned six decades with numerous hits, though his personal struggles with addiction affected his productivity during certain periods. His partnership with Tammy Wynette in the 1970s produced classic duets and some of his most celebrated recordings. Jones remained a vital force in country music until his death, maintaining respect across generations of country artists.
Style
Jones was a master of traditional honky-tonk and country vocals, characterized by his emotionally raw, wavering tenor voice and impeccable phrasing. His style blended influences from Hank Williams and other country pioneers with sophisticated production arrangements.
Significance
George Jones is essential to any serious country music vinyl collection, with his numerous albums representing the evolution of country music from the 1950s onward. His recordings are highly sought by collectors for both their musical quality and historical importance to understanding authentic country music traditions.
"I Am What I Am" was George Jones's 1980 album for Epic Records, recorded during a transitional period in his career. The album showcased Jones's return to more traditional country themes and his trademark vocal delivery, featuring production that balanced his classic honky-tonk style with contemporary 1980s country arrangements. The sessions brought together seasoned Nashville musicians and producers who understood Jones's legacy while helping him maintain relevance on radio. Key tracks demonstrated his ability to convey deep emotion through storytelling, a hallmark of his five-decade career. The album represented Jones at a point where he was reasserting himself as a serious artist, moving past some of his earlier struggles and focusing on the craft that made him "The Possum"—one of country music's most respected vocalists.
Historical Context
Released in 1980, the album arrived during a period when traditional country was competing with the slick Urban Cowboy phenomenon and emerging New Country sounds. George Jones, despite his legendary status, was working to maintain chart presence in an evolving market. The early 1980s saw Jones experiencing a professional and personal renaissance, particularly with his then-wife Tammy Wynette. Country radio was becoming more format-driven, and "I Am What I Am" aimed to showcase Jones's authenticity against this backdrop. The album received respectable critical appreciation from those who valued Jones's vocal purity and traditional approach, though it competed in a market increasingly dominated by newer artists.
Pressing Notes
"I Am What I Am" was released on Epic Records as both LP and cassette formats typical of the 1980 era. Original pressings came with the standard jacket featuring Jones, and vinyl copies exist in standard black vinyl. Like most Epic releases of this period, condition varies considerably on the secondary market. Collectors should note that George Jones discography can be complicated due to catalog reissues and compilations across multiple labels throughout his long career. Original 1980 first pressings on Epic are moderately collectible; those interested in this album should check matrix numbers and pressing plant information on the label, as Epic used multiple pressing facilities during this era.
Red Headed Stranger
Willie Nelson
A sparse, narrative-driven country album that shares George Jones' introspective depth and commitment to authentic storytelling over production polish.
Honky Tonk Heroes
Waylon Jennings
A honky-tonk masterpiece with the same gritty authenticity and emotional vulnerability that defines Jones' finest work.
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