Introduction:
Country music royalty, George Jones and Tammy Wynette, joined forces in 1973 to create a song that resonated deeply with working-class America. Titled “(We’re Not) The Jet Set”, the track became a signature duet for the legendary couple, both on and off the stage.
Wynette, known as the “First Lady of Country Music,” had already established herself as a powerful vocalist with songs like “Stand By Your Man” (1968) and “D.I.V.O.R.C.E.” (1967). Jones, nicknamed “The Possum” for his distinctive voice and stage presence, was a country music icon with hits like “He Stopped Loving Her Today” (1980) and “The Race Is On” (1965). Their individual successes paved the way for a collaborative magic that “(We’re Not) The Jet Set” perfectly captured.
The song, written by country songwriter Bobby Braddock, spoke to a segment of society often overlooked in the world of celebrity and glamour. Produced by Billy Sherrill, a legend in country music production known for his polished “Nashville Sound,” “(We’re Not) The Jet Set” defied his usual sonic approach. Instead, the track featured a more stripped-down arrangement, allowing the raw emotion of Jones and Wynette’s vocals to take center stage.
(We’re Not) The Jet Set wasn’t a chart-topping juggernaut, but it resonated deeply with fans. It became a staple on country radio and a beloved choice for jukeboxes across the nation. The song’s lyrics celebrated the simple pleasures of life – a love built on shared experiences, a comfortable home, and the joys of family. It resonated with blue-collar workers who found themselves far removed from the extravagant lifestyles of the wealthy and famous.
(We’re Not) The Jet Set stands as a testament to the power of country music to capture the everyday struggles and triumphs of ordinary people. While Jones and Wynette’s personal lives became tabloid fodder in later years, their on-stage chemistry and the enduring message of this song solidify their place as country music royalty who could speak to the hearts of the working class with authenticity and grace.
Video:
Lyrics:
By a fountain back in RomeI fell in love with youIn a small cafe in AthensYou said you loved me too
And it was April in ParisWhen I first held you close to me
Rome, GeorgiaAthens, TexasAnd Paris, TennesseeNo we’re not the jet setWe’re the old Chevrolet setThere’s no RivieraIn Festus, MissouriAnd you won’t find OnasisIn Mullinville, KansasNo, we’re not the jet setWe’re the old Chevrolet setBut ain’t we got love?No we’re not the jet setWe’re the old Chevrolet setOur steak and martinisIs draft beer with wienersOur Bach and TchaikovskyIs Haggard and HuskyNo we’re not the jet setWe’re the old Chevrolet setBut ain’t we got love?No, we’re not the jet setWe’re the old Chevrolet setThe Jones and Wynette setAin’t the flamin’ Suzette set
Our Bach and TchaikovskyIs Haggard n’…(fades out)