George Jones, often hailed as the “King of Country Music,” has left an indelible mark on the genre with his soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics.
His discography is a treasure trove of timeless classics, each one a testament to his unparalleled artistry. Among these gems is the poignant ballad, “Once You’ve Had the Best”.
Background
Released in 1989, “Once You’ve Had the Best” is a poignant reflection on a love lost and the enduring pain of heartbreak. Jones’s emotive delivery captures the raw vulnerability and longing that characterize the song’s themes.
The track’s haunting melody and poignant lyrics have resonated with audiences for decades, solidifying its place as a country music staple.
The song’s narrative unfolds through the perspective of a narrator who is grappling with the aftermath of a failed relationship.
The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the bittersweet memories associated with the love that once was. Jones’s voice conveys a sense of melancholy and regret, as he sings about the emptiness that follows the loss of a cherished partner.
One of the song’s most striking lines is the poignant refrain, “Once you’ve had the best, the rest just don’t compare.”
This lyric encapsulates the idea that the experience of true love can leave one feeling profoundly dissatisfied with anything less. It also speaks to the enduring power of memory and the way in which past experiences can shape our perceptions of the present and future.
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Lyrics
🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤
I’m so glad to have you back within these arms of mineI can finally close my eyes and get some restNever once did I think of finding someone new‘Cause there’s nothing better once you’ve had the bestYou’re the very thing they sing about in love songsAnd one mistake don’t mean you’ve failed the testAnd as you lay beside me softly sleeping, this I knowThere’s nothing better once you’ve had the bestWithin your arms I’ve had the best and I think the world should knowI don’t care what you’ve said or done I’ll always love you soYou’ve got more love in your little finger than all the restAnd there’s nothing better once you’ve had the bestNo, there’s nothing better once you’ve had the best