The Essential George Jones

Spanning 45 years of music, The Essential George Jones offers an in-depth survey of this country legend’s hugely influential career. Starting with his 1954 debut, “No Money in This Deal,” and closing with his 1999 single “Choices,” this anthology moves from Jones’ early days as a Hank Williams–style honky tonk artist through his flirtation with rockabilly and into his emergence as one of country’s greatest romantic balladeers. Disc One’s highlights include such hard-twanging favorites as “Why Baby Why” and “The Race Is On,” as well as signature heartbreak anthems like “She Thinks I Still Care” and “A Picture of Me (Without You).” Side Two covers Jones’ storied years with Epic Records, distinguished by the likes of “The Grand Tour,” “If Drinkin’ Don’t Kill Me (Her Memory Will),” and—most of all—“He Stopped Loving Her Today.” Along with the Top 10 hits are such lesser-known gems as the barroom lament “Out of Control” and the tormented torch song “Stand on My Own Two Knees.” The Essential George Jones succeeds admirably at touching on Ol’ Possum’s finest moments.