George Jones – The Right Left Hand: A Country Ballad of Second Chances
In the vast landscape of country music, few voices resonate with such raw emotion and lived experience as that of George Jones. Nicknamed “The Possum” for his distinctive, almost pleading tenor, Jones carved a path through the genre, leaving behind a legacy of heart-wrenching ballads and tear-in-your-beer anthems.
Background
Released in 1987 as the second single from his album Wine Colored Roses, “The Right Left Hand”. Having battled personal demons and professional struggles for years, the song served as a triumphant declaration of his newfound happiness.
It reached number eight on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart, becoming a beacon of hope for fans who had followed Jones’ tumultuous journey.
The song’s chorus, a joyous celebration of commitment, serves as the emotional core of the song. Jones’ repeated emphasis on “the right left hand” underscores the significance of finding the right partner, someone who completes him.
The musical arrangement of “The Right Left Hand” is a perfect complement to the song’s message. A simple yet elegant country waltz with a prominent steel guitar provides a backdrop for Jones’ vocals, allowing his emotional delivery to take center stage.
Beyond its personal significance for Jones, “The Right Left Hand” resonated with countless listeners who had experienced their own share of heartbreak.
Video
Lyrics
🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤
Then the good Lord finally gave meA true love of a lady,Someone who believes in meAnd she lets me know each day,That love is here to stayI finally found someone who’ll never leaveI put a golden band on the right left hand this time,And the right left hand put a golden band on mineWhen our hair is snowy white,Time will prove I’m rightI put a golden band on the right left hand this timeI’ll never have to pleadFor the love that my heart needs,She’ll be close enough to touchAnd when the nights are long and cold,She’ll be there to hold,All dressed up for one more night of love