Introduction:
“Tonight I’m Playing Possum” is a heartfelt tribute song recorded by Randy Travis, released in 2013. The song was written by Keith Gattis and Joe Nichols, and it pays homage to the legendary George Jones, one of the most influential figures in country music history. The title of the song is a clever reference to Jones’s nickname, “The Possum,” which he earned early in his career due to his facial features and down-to-earth personality.
The song was released shortly after George Jones’s passing in April 2013, and it served as a powerful and emotional farewell from one country icon to another. Travis had long admired Jones and often cited him as a major influence on his own musical style. By recording this tribute, he honored not only Jones’s music but also his legacy in shaping traditional country music.
Musically, “Tonight I’m Playing Possum” features a slow, mournful melody that reflects the sadness and reverence of the lyrics. The song uses classic country instrumentation, including pedal steel guitar, acoustic guitar, and subtle percussion, giving it a traditional sound that mirrors the style of George Jones himself. Randy Travis’s deep, resonant voice adds emotional weight to the performance, making it one of his most poignant recordings.
What makes the song particularly moving is its storytelling. The lyrics imagine a quiet night where the narrator is listening to George Jones’s records, shutting out the world to grieve in solitude. It captures the deep emotional connection fans had with Jones, and the way music can be both a comfort and a form of remembrance.
“Tonight I’m Playing Possum” is more than a song—it’s a sincere tribute from one legend to another, resonating deeply with fans of traditional country music.