George Jones – Choices: A Country Ballad of Regret and Redemption
In the annals of country music, few voices resonate with such raw emotion and lived experience as that of George Jones. Nicknamed “The Possum” for his distinctive high tenor and phrasing, Jones carved a path through the genre, leaving behind a legacy of heartbreak, resilience, and the unflinching realities of life. Among his vast repertoire of hits, Choices stands out as a poignant and powerful ballad, a confessional exploration of regret and the weight of past decisions.
Background
Released in 1999 as the lead single from his critically acclaimed album Cold Hard Truth, Choices marked a turning point in Jones’ career. Coming clean about his personal struggles with alcohol abuse, the song resonated deeply with audiences, solidifying his status as a voice for honesty and vulnerability in country music.
The song’s arrangement is a masterclass in subtlety. A simple yet evocative backing band featuring acoustic guitar, piano, and steel guitar provides a nuanced backdrop for Jones’ vocals. The absence of heavy drums or excessive production allows the raw emotion of the lyrics and performance to shine through.
Choices transcended the boundaries of a country hit, becoming an anthem for anyone who has grappled with past mistakes. The song resonated with critics and audiences alike, earning a Grammy Award nomination for Best Country Song and propelling Cold Hard Truth to commercial success.
Beyond its commercial impact, Choices stands as a powerful testament to the enduring power of storytelling in country music. Jones’ vulnerability and honesty resonated deeply with listeners, reminding us that even in the face of regret, there is always a path towards redemption.
Video
Lyrics
🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤
Chorus:
I’ve had choices
Since the day that I was born
There were voices
That told me right from wrong
If I had listened
No, I wouldn’t be here today
Living and dying
With the choices I’ve made
I was tempted
By an early age I found
I liked drinkin’
Oh, and I never turned it down
There were loved ones
But I turned them all away
Now I’m living and dying
With the choices I’ve made
Chorus:
I’ve had choices
Since the day that I was born
There were voices
That told me right from wrong
If I had listened
No, I wouldn’t be here today
Living and dying
With the choices I’ve made
— Instrumental —
I guess I’m payin’
For the things that I have done
If I could go back
Oh, Lord knows I’d run
But I’m still losin’
This game of life I play
Living and dying
With the choices I’ve made
Chorus:
I’ve had choices
Since the day that I was born
There were voices
That told me right from wrong