Introduction:
Released in 1970 on the album Will You Visit Me on Sunday, “She’s As Close As I Can Get To Loving You” is a heartbreaking country ballad by legendary singer George Jones. Written by Danny Wills and Johnny Wright, the song became a showcase for Jones’ emotive vocals and his ability to deliver a song filled with complex emotions.
“She’s As Close As I Can Get To Loving You” explores the pain of unrequited love and the bittersweet consolation of finding someone who resembles a lost love. The lyrics paint a picture of a narrator who is drawn to a woman who reminds him of someone he can’t have. He acknowledges her imperfections but finds solace in her resemblance, admitting “She’s not perfect but I’m happy I found her cause she’s as close as I can get to loving you.” The song’s emotional core lies in this conflicted state, where the narrator grapples with the yearning for his past love while accepting the limitations of the present relationship.
George Jones, nicknamed “The Possum” for his distinctive high tenor voice, was already a well-established country music star by 1970. Known for his heart-wrenching ballads and his struggles with alcoholism, Jones brought a raw vulnerability to his performances. In “She’s As Close As I Can Get To Loving You”, he delivers a vocal that perfectly captures the protagonist’s emotional turmoil. The song’s producer, Billy Sherrill, known for his polished “countrypolitan” sound, allowed Jones’ voice to shine through, creating a powerful and moving listening experience.
While “She’s As Close As I Can Get To Loving You” didn’t reach the top of the charts on its release, it has become a beloved song among George Jones fans and country music aficionados. Its enduring popularity lies in its relatable portrayal of unrequited love and the complexity of human emotions. The song continues to resonate with listeners who have experienced similar heartbreak and the bittersweet consolation of finding someone who reminds them of a lost love. “She’s As Close As I Can Get To Loving You” stands as a testament to George Jones’ exceptional vocal talent and his ability to deliver songs that capture the full spectrum of human experience.