Introduction:
“These Days (I Barely Get By)” is a poignant country ballad co-written and performed by the legendary George Jones. Released in 1974 on his retrospective album “The Best of George Jones,” the song offers a raw and melancholic reflection on a deteriorating relationship, mirroring the troubled times Jones was experiencing with his then-wife, Tammy Wynette.
The song’s lyrics paint a bleak picture of a man struggling to cope with the emotional turmoil of a failing marriage. Jones’s distinctive voice, known for its emotional depth and expressive phrasing, captures the pain and despair of the protagonist. The song’s sparse instrumentation, featuring acoustic guitar and subtle pedal steel, further emphasizes the raw emotion of the lyrics.
“These Days (I Barely Get By)” became a significant moment in Jones’s career, showcasing his ability to convey profound emotional depth through his music. It remains a beloved classic among country music fans, resonating with listeners who have experienced the pain of heartbreak and loss. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its honesty, its ability to capture the universal human experience of love, longing, and the fragility of relationships.