About the song
George Jones, the iconic “Possum,” has etched his name into the annals of country music history with his soulful voice and timeless melodies. Released in 1972, A Picture of Me (Without You) stands as a testament to his enduring artistry and emotional depth. This album, his second for Epic Records, showcases Jones’s ability to navigate a range of emotions, from heartache to hope.
While A Picture of Me (Without You) may not have reached the commercial heights of some of Jones’s other albums, it offers a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the human condition. The title track, a mournful ballad, paints a vivid picture of loneliness and longing. Jones’s raw vocals convey the pain of separation, capturing the listener’s attention with its emotional intensity.
Beyond the title track, the album features a diverse collection of songs that reflect Jones’s versatility as an artist. “On The Back Row” delves into the bitterness of unrequited love, while “Tomorrow Never Comes” offers a timeless reminder of the fleeting nature of life. Tom T. Hall’s “Second Handed Flowers” adds a touch of storytelling to the album, showcasing Jones’s ability to connect with the narratives of everyday people.
The collaboration between Jones and producer Billy Sherrill on A Picture of Me (Without You) is a testament to their creative synergy. While Sherrill’s experimental approach sometimes clashed with Jones’s traditional country sensibilities, their partnership ultimately resulted in a collection of songs that resonate with fans of all ages. As biographer Bob Allen noted, Jones had a deep respect for country music and was committed to preserving its integrity.
A Picture of Me (Without You) is more than just an album; it is a snapshot of George Jones’s artistry at its finest. With its heartfelt melodies and emotional depth, this classic recording continues to captivate audiences and solidify Jones’s legacy as one of country music’s greatest icons.
Video
Lyrics
Imagine a world where no music was playin’
Then think of a church with nobody prayin’
If you’ve ever looked up at a sky with no blue
Then you’ve seen a picture of me without you
Have you walked in a garden where nothing was growin’
Or stood by a river where nothing was flowin’
If you’ve seen a red rose unkissed by the dew
Then you’ve seen a picture of me without you
Can you picture Heaven with no angels singin’
Or a quiet Sunday morning with no church bells ringin’
If you’ve watched as the heart of a child breaks in two
Then you’ve seen a picture of me without you