Broken Records Magazine’s Markos Papadatos had the distinct privilege to interview a country music pioneer- the incomparable Mr. George Jones. Dubbed as “the greatest living country singer,” George Jones was inducted into the prestigious Country Music Hall of Fame in 1992, and was an honoree at the 2008 Kennedy Center Honors; moreover, in 2003, Country Music Television (CMT) ranked him as the third greatest man in the history of country music, behind Johnny Cash and Hank Williams.
On September 13, 2011, George Jones celebrated his 80th birthday at the legendary Grand Ole Opry, along with a group of close musician friends. “It was just great to have so many of my friends there at the Opry that night. It made it so memorable and special for me,” George Jones says.
Throughout his illustrious career in country, “The Possum” notes that the music business has changed substantially. “We have seen ups and downs in the country music business, and now with the Internet, the way music is distributed and purchased has totally changed,” he remarks.
“The music itself has definitely changed. I must admit, a lot of it I don’t care for because it isn’t what I consider ‘country music’ but all genres of music change with the times,” the country crooner adds.
Regarding the key to longevity in the music industry, Jones reveals “I think one of the most important things is to remember who got you where you are, and that is the fans! Country music has the most loyal fans on earth and they will stick by you through thick and thin.”
For aspiring country singers and songwriters who wish to make it in the industry, George Jones underscores, “always be yourself and don’t try to be someone you are not, or to emulate someone else.”
Jones notes that his plans for the future are to “slow down,” as well as to enjoy time spent with his wife and family.
When asked about his wishes for his musical legacy, Jones states “that I stayed true to traditional country music.”
For George Jones, the word success is defined as “having lived for eighty years and made a living doing what I love. What more could a man ask for?”
In summation, George Jones is an American treasure! He is destined to go down as one of the most prolific singer-songwriters music has ever known.
To learn more about living legend George Jones, his music and touring schedule, please visit his official website.
Many thanks to George Jones and his team for granting this interview with Broken Records Magazine.
By: Markos Papadatos
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