Introduction:
The year is 1979. Country music, a genre long rooted in tales of love lost and life’s struggles, finds two of its most iconic voices – George Jones and Tammy Wynette – reflecting on a past romance in a song destined for country music royalty. “It Sure Was Good,” a duet steeped in nostalgia and bittersweet memories, would become a signature song for both artists, solidifying their place as country music’s preeminent couple – both on and off the stage.
George Jones, “The Possum,” was already a legend by 1979. His distinctive baritone voice, raw and powerful, delivered tales of heartbreak and hardship with unmatched authenticity. Tammy Wynette, “The First Lady of Country Music,” was known for her powerful vocals and songs that resonated with themes of loneliness and longing. Their real-life marriage from 1969 to 1975, a tumultuous union marked by addiction and heartache, mirrored the themes explored in many of their songs. Though divorced, their on-stage chemistry remained undeniable, fueled by a shared vulnerability and understanding of the genre’s core themes.
Producer Billy Sherrill, known for his “countrypolitan” sound that blended traditional country elements with pop influences, brought “It Sure Was Good” to the table. Written by Billy Sherrill and George Richey, the song is a testament to the power of shared memories, even in the wake of a failed relationship. The melody, a slow waltz with a hint of melancholy, perfectly complements the lyrics that paint a picture of a love that once burned brightly.
The song itself is a conversation between two former lovers, each reminiscing about the good times they shared. Lines like “We were young and the world was ours, didn’t have a single doubt” and “We had nothin’ but each other, but that was all we needed then” evoke a sense of wistfulness, acknowledging the happiness they once found together. The chorus, a powerful declaration of “It sure was good,” is a bittersweet refrain, acknowledging the beauty of their past even as they recognize it’s over.
“It Sure Was Good” was released in 1979 on George Jones’ album “My Very Special Guests,” which featured duets with several female country stars. Despite not being a single release, the song quickly became a fan favorite, resonating with listeners who found themselves reflecting on past loves. Live performances of the song by Jones and Wynette were particularly powerful, their own real-life history adding an undeniable layer of authenticity to the performance.
While not topping any charts, “It Sure Was Good” remains a cornerstone of George Jones and Tammy Wynette’s respective catalogs. It’s a poignant reminder of the enduring power of love and loss, a theme that continues to resonate with country music fans across generations. The song stands as a testament to the magic that can be created when two iconic voices come together, capturing the complexities of human emotions in a way that is both relatable and unforgettable.