George Jones-The Race Is On

Introduction:

In the vast tapestry of country music, heartache is a recurring theme, woven into countless ballads and tear-jerking tunes. George Jones, a legendary artist known for his powerful voice and poignant delivery, captured this sentiment perfectly in his 1964 hit, “The Race Is On”. Released on his album I Get Lonely in a Hurry, the song became a defining moment in Jones’ career, showcasing his signature style and resonating deeply with audiences.

Composed by songwriter Don Rollins, “The Race Is On” is not to be confused with the later country hit “It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere” by Alan Jackson and Jimmy Buffett, which was written by a different Don Rollins. While the exact details of the song’s creation remain slightly shrouded, “The Race Is On” seamlessly aligns with Jones’ artistic persona. Recorded in June 1963, the track wouldn’t be released for over a year, strategically placed on the I Get Lonely in a Hurry album. This 1964 collection proved to be a turning point for Jones, solidifying his position as a country music powerhouse.

“The Race Is On” is a masterclass in country storytelling. Jones’ distinctive vocals, laced with a touch of vulnerability, narrate a tale of lost love and a desperate attempt to win her back. The metaphor of a race becomes the central theme, with the protagonist battling against a rival for the affections of his former lover. The instrumentation, likely overseen by the album’s producer, perfectly complements the emotional weight of the lyrics. A simple yet effective arrangement, likely featuring acoustic guitar, steel guitar, and a tight rhythm section, creates a bed for Jones’ voice to soar.

Upon its release, “The Race Is On” proved to be a success for Jones. The song climbed the Billboard country chart, reaching a respectable number 3 position. “The Race Is On” transcended the boundaries of country music, however, finding a surprising audience on the pop and easy listening charts. This crossover appeal, while not uncommon for Jones during this period of his career, further cemented his status as a versatile artist.

“The Race Is On” remains a cornerstone of George Jones’ legacy. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its relatable themes, Jones’ masterful performance, and its status as a prime example of classic country music. Whether experienced by a heartbroken listener in 1964 or a new audience decades later, “The Race Is On” continues to resonate with its timeless message of love, loss, and the desperate hope for a second chance.

Video:

Lyrics:

I feel tears wellin’ up cold deep inside
Like my heart’s sprung a big break
And a stab of loneliness sharp and painful
That I may never shake

You might say that I was taking it hard
Since you wrote me off with a call
But don’t you wager that I’ll hide in sorrow
When I may lay right down and bawl

Now the race is on
And here comes pride in the backstretch
Heartaches goin’ to the inside
My tears are holdin’ back
They’re tryin’ not to fall
My hearts out of the runnin’
True love’s scratched for another’s sake
The race is on and it looks like heartaches
And the winner loses all

One day I ventured in love
Never once suspectin’ what the final result would be
And how I lived in fear of waking up each morning
Finding that you’re gone from me
There’s ache and pain in my heart
For today was the one that I hated to face
Somebody new came up to win her
And I came out in second place

Now the race is on
And here comes pride in the back stretch
Heartaches goin’ to the inside
My tears are holdin’ back
They’re tryin’ not to fall
My hearts out of the runnin’
True love’s scratched for another’s sake
The race is on and it looks like heartaches
And the winner loses all

Now the race is on
And here comes pride in the backstretch
Heartaches goin’ to the inside
My tears are holdin’ back
They’re tryin’ not to fall
My hearts out of the runnin’
True love’s scratched for another’s sake
The race is on and it looks like heartaches
And the winner loses all
The winner loses all