Introduction:
Country music thrives on storytelling, weaving tales of love, loss, and lessons learned along the way. Few artists captured this essence quite like George Jones, the Possum himself. In 1973, Jones released a song that would become a signature piece in his repertoire, a poignant ballad titled “Once You’ve Had the Best”.
While the song wasn’t originally penned by Jones, it found its perfect voice in his weathered baritone. The songwriter behind the tune was another country great, Johnny Paycheck. Paycheck had a successful solo career, but his version of “Once You’ve Had the Best” never quite achieved the widespread recognition it would later receive.
That credit goes to Jones and his producer, Billy Sherrill. Sherrill, known for his polished “countrypolitan” sound, helped Jones deliver a version of the song that resonated deeply with audiences. The arrangement, featuring a prominent steel guitar and a driving rhythm section, perfectly complemented Jones’ emotive vocals.
“Once You’ve Had the Best” tells the story of a man grappling with the aftermath of a lost love. The lyrics, though not written by Jones, paint a vivid picture of his yearning and regret. He reflects on the irreplaceable quality of the love he once had, a love so profound that everything else pales in comparison. The song doesn’t delve into the specifics of the breakup, but the emotional weight is undeniable.
The impact of “Once You’ve Had the Best” was undeniable. The song became a Top 5 hit for Jones on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart in late 1973. It wasn’t just a commercial success; the song resonated with fans and critics alike. “Once You’ve Had the Best” became a staple of Jones’ live performances, often included as his opening number as a way to connect with the audience on a deeply personal level.
The song’s legacy extends beyond its initial success. “Once You’ve Had the Best” is considered a classic of the genre, a timeless exploration of love and loss. It has been covered by numerous artists, a testament to its enduring power. For George Jones, the song became a signature piece, a powerful showcase for his vocal prowess and his ability to connect with listeners on an emotional level.
“Once You’ve Had the Best” stands as a prime example of George Jones’ artistry and the enduring power of country music storytelling. It’s a song that lingers long after the last note fades, a reminder of the bittersweet beauty of love and the ache of loss.
Video:
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 best
You’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 best
Within 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