I guess a "checked out" greatest country singer to ever live is still better than almost all of the rest. "The Grand Tour" (1974) is one of my favorite country songs. It stands up well to any country song you'd want to put it up against.
I also agree with you. Very few vocalists in any genre of music can drive the emotion of a song into the heart of the listener. Most are lucky to be capable technicians. The George Jones, Patsy Clines and Karen Carpenters ( to name a few ) are rare indeed.
Same here. Music is subjective, so Kenny's opinion isn't right or wrong, it's his opinion. Doesn't change how I feel about him or George Jones post 1970.
Not to brag, but I went to see Marty, Kenny & the guys last week from the 12th row. First time seeing them in person & all I can say is they’re all the real deal. They came out & blew the roof off the place for an hour & a half. Kenny was doing some things on the guitar I’ve never seen. Looked like Marty was just smiling at him when he’d do something cool. They did El Paso & Kenny made it look easy. Now I’m trying to improve my guitar playing & figure out some of those licks.
The album "A Picture of Me Without You" was recorded in 1972 and contained stripped down production along with some of George's best singing. With songs like "Let There Be Woman", "Tomorrow Never Comes", "A Picture of Me Without You" and "On The Back Row" this album is proof that George was not done in 1970 and still could deliver a heartfelt performance. But that's just like, my opinion man...
Man, I’m so glad someone finally said it. I’ve always wondered why so many people have called “He Stopped Loving Her Today”. I thought I was the only one.
I saw Kenny last Friday night in Waco, Texas. Marty Stuart & His Fabulous Superlatives were playing all acoustic and Kenny tore it up all night. What an amazing player.
Damn, Kenny, you got his career over about the time it got going; if he was done by 1970, 80% of the world would have never heard of him; the country music market in 1970 was tiny by todays standards. His comeback album in 1980 was a monster with He Stopped Loving Her Today driving sales, and the neo traditional revival in the late 80's boosted his fame and career to icon status. If you're trying to say that he became a parody of himself to some degree and just mailed it in after 1970. I'd buy that:)
The more I hear Kenny the more I respect him. What an accomplished musician and incredible source of knowledge and a wealth of info. Love to see him playing with Dave Roe.
George cut a song that I wrote with Alex Harvey “Gotta get to Louisiana”. That will forever stand as my proudest achievement during my nashville years. 1993-2012. Enjoying the videos and of course love all of Kenny’s stuff. The best.
Can't get enough of Cousin Kenny. I was surprised but happy to hear him tell the bald faced truth about George Jones in his later career. Even the greats like George weren't always great and it's disrespectful to them to pretend their lesser works are praiseworthy. I'm waiting for someone to tell the truth about Chet Atkins. For all his guitar mastery and promotional skills, he had a profoundly negative effect on country music, adding violins and choral background groups, and turning good honest music into homogenized schlock. Some of the songwriters and performers from those days were so good their work still managed to shine through the sappy orchestrations. Chet hated the movement to free country music from these pop trappings and make the lyrics more honest and gritty. He was no friend to Bill Joe Shaver, Waylon, Willy, or the boys. Chet deserves mad respect for his guitar work but not for his producing and attempt to turn country music into the Lawrence Welk hour. I know I'll catch hell from anyone who reads this, but it's the truth (more or less) and I stand by it.
You won’t catch hell from me because I almost completely agree with you. The Nashville Sound worked for a very small group of singers, Jim Reeves, for example, but it mostly sucked.
I understand where he's coming from he's an artist, he's a purist but if I had a choice to see marty stuart or 90's live george jones I would pick the possum
I don’t understand where he’s coming from, it almost sounds like he has a personal block or something. But I do agree, I’d rather here George do Choices than here Marty Stuart do anything.
I'm so glad to hear Kenny say this. I've always thought that song was so overwrought and too cute at the same time. Give me "Talk to Me O Lonesome Heart" or a hundred others.
Kenny is not wrong,,,,, technically,,,,,, BUT,,, BIG CHUNKS of the post 1970 Billy Sherrill Epic stuff that Jones put out were and is awesome and He Stopped Loving Her Today wasn't pure hardcore country but it was one hell of a song and production and I and millions more love it...
I'm not enough of an expert on George's later periods to know if I agree with what Kenny says or not. I've always preferred music that's raw and spontaneous and that's often earlier in an artists career. I don't think it's unusual for a artist to lose it creatively a bit as they go on. Arguably Stevie Wonder lost it after his great run of 70s albums. Johnny Cash too. But Johnny came back wonderfully and unexpectedly towards the end of his career with those Rick Rubin produced albums
We love hearing Kenny’s stories. Our two favorites of his stories were the one about Tom Petty and the one about Jerry Lee Lewis, so far anyway. Thank you Kenny and thank you Otis. We are so happy we found you!
Man I love it when you talk to Kenny. Don't get me wrong your other interviews are awsome but there's something about Kenny V. It's the odd stuff that he has knowledge of that sounds so fresh. He's the real deal! Excellent stuff!
I got on a Bobby Whitlock kick, when his most excellent wife began recording and posting his memoirs! I love Kenny’s conversations with Otis even more! Kenny’s breadth of personal experiences span a much greater time frame, than Bobby’s. Whitlock experienced a true golden period of music, but Kenny has rubbed shoulders with everyone in country music, roots music, many bluesmen, not to mention the rock’n roll guys! Cheers!
Kenny's absolutely wrong about this song. From what I saw thru the George and Tammy years in the press. This was their life, laid bare, in a real Country song. It's right up there in the Country Music pantheon with "Stand By Your Man' and "Islands in the Stream', Wichita Lineman,' Galveston, not to mention Charlie Rich's 'Most Beautiful Girl' and Behind Closed Doors'. I'd bet there's a HUGE, chunk of country fans that would disagree with him. I'd guess they'd be the vast majority of the music BUYING audience.
Mr Gibbs. Thank-you for introducing me to your friend Kenny Vaughn. I'd never heard of him. So I researched. Now he's my current favorite! Fab musician, bee charmer personality. After watching him play "bonanza " at some Paris France gig, I would recommend to Mr Vaughn to have a box of business cards made that say: Kenny Vaughan American Guitar Player- Have fingers- No Hips-Will Travel 🤣🤣🤣🤣❤
George was country and he never strayed from it. I loved all his music no matter what year it was. It was country period. The other shit mentioned was pop country.
I used to work in a nursing home in Jasper, Tx. Most of the residents had a George story of seeing him walking the backroads barefoot with a guitar or saw him in the early days playing in the local dancehalls.
Man I sure do love these interviews and must say you 'n Kenny have the most excellent smiles, well done! Great stories great conversation and now, after additional research, I now know who the hell Kenny Vaughan is and what an extraordinary musician! Thank you Otis!
I admire Kenny's forthrightness about George. And he would know better than I if George checked out after 1970. But Jones still put out some great songs after that, IMHO.On an unrelated note, Kenny is a hoss-cat on the guitar. And I like his stories. Cheers!
I’m a fan of Kenny Vaughan and have enjoyed his interviews and stories. His playing, experience and attitude are a wealth. I can certainly understand what he’s saying here, but to discount George Jones’ career after 1970 until his passing in 2013 is pretty harsh. I get where he’s coming from, I love the raw old country too. I wish the masses could realize how good of a Country song the original version of Tennessee Whiskey is rather the admirable, but decidedly dumbed down version I have to play in bars now . . Nobody gets the George version. Sad.
Hey Otis! I just got tickets for The Superlatives in Leeds! Can’t wait man! Tell Kenny, Im the guy up in the box with hair like Johnny Winter! I’d sure love to say hello to my favourite band!
Just to hear the “second second hand” stories is fun, if not enlightening.... It’s always good to “think over” someone else’s story or viewpoint.... you never know , it could change or Broaden your perspective and perception.... like acquired wisdom, you absorb it just by listening and keeping an open mind.....
@@paultorbert6929 I couldn't agree more. I absolutely love hearing these stories and just taking in these little bits of information from people who actually have been around these legends. Huge props to Otis for giving these people the platform for these stories we may have never heard otherwise.
Brother Kenny knows. Crewcut jones was a legend. Still young and strong and incredible. Lost a step or two after that. Lots of amazing songs and performances in the later years but not the same. Go listen to the early stuff - there’s magic to him then. Absolute legend!
I think he never would have wanted to be confined to the studio as those guys (and Carol) were, but I see your point. He’s a guy who can add quality to any song or performer.
If he had been in the Wrecking Crew, chances are he'd be dead by now. He's done his share of session work, too. I'm glad we still have him now, playing and telling stories from his POV.
I respect Kenny a great deal, and I love his stories, but as far as George checking out after 1970? I can't agree with that. His run with Tammy, then all those great songs in the early 80s like "Still Doing Time" "Someday My Day Will Come" "20 years in 5" and others, that was some of the most riveting country music ever. There was a reason that a major publication (New York Times?) in the late 70s, early 80s, called him the "Holy Ghost of country music." You don't get an accolade like that without doing something right. The tragic thing that will always be about George, is the "What if?" If cocaine and too much booze had never reared its ugly head, who knows how much greater he would have been? We'll never know the songs that we missed out on.
Also know, George's last record, The Cold Hard Truth was actually good. But again, I agree. Sorry I'm posting all these comments, but George is my favorite vocalist. Dylan probably fav artist. Guitarist: Carlos Montoya and/or Lonnie Johnson.
Kenny does real well w/telling it like it was & is. 'Schlock', I haven't heard anyone else use that one besides myself in long while. The 'industry' treats talent & entertainers like human juke boxes. Shove 'em in a box. Push the buttons, spins them 'round & gives up a quarter, while the dollars go elsewhere.
I think people loved “He Stopped Loving Her Today”, because of George’s relationship with Tammy. My grandparents owned a beer joint and George Jones was always on the jukebox. I’m not sure if it was because of his music or because grandpa, pulled a similar stunt on his lawnmower.🤣
I agree that the style changed. But Checked out no Sir. So many great albums were made in the 70s/80s/ and 90s. The first one with Merle was amazing. And in 95 did amazing one with Tammy .and lots of more great duets and Solo Albums. George always had great Rd Band and did some very great live shows . Lots on You Tube over the Yrs. As someone that has almost everything he recorded he was great up to his car wreck in 1999. Lost some of his tone then . And faded sadly . YES HSLHT not my fav either. But he made something special of it . Diary of my Mind. One of my big favs
If loving HSLHT is wrong then I don't want to be right. However it can't be the greatest country song because it doesn't mention anything about mama, trains, trucks, prison or getting drunk. I can appreciate Kenny's insight and thank him for sharing though.
Respectfully disagree with Kenny about the post 70's George Jones but I get where he's coming from. And he's spot-on with his assessment of Jones and Melba Montgomery, arguably the greatest country duet ever, far superior to the later stuff with T. Wynette.
Sherrill insisted that Wynette sing things like 'Apartment number 9.' That was '66. So who knows why people ended up doing what they did. Mr Vaughan used the word 'complicated,' and that probably sums up a lot of people's careers at that time....'Good Year For The Roses' isn't a bad tune.
Somewhat agree, but there were definitely gems. The “George Jones and The Smoky Mountain Boys” album cut in the early 70’s(not released until much later) is one of my favorites where he covers old standards, like Wabash Cannonball and some Hank Williams numbers too. I play along with it all the time and George was on point on that album, and all good songs, too!
You hear it all the time, you should've seen (?) when they were younger etc. From a fan perspective though, I'm just glad he stayed around long enough for me to see him a few times. As to your question, I don't think I could even pick one.
Just an observation from the videos cover photo - ... If a George Jones movie ever gets put together within the next 20 years or so, Jim Carrey would be a solid cast for the lead roll. Also, thanks much for yet another quality upload fellas. ... Tis very much appreciated 🙏👍😃.
I’m a big fan of Kenny and of George Jones. I hope someday you can do a piece with Kenny that articulates George’s complexities in a meaningful way so we can get a better idea of what George was going through and the perception of him that his peers had from 1970 to the end of his career.
The greatest country album ever made thats pretty simple, vern gosdin--- chiseled in stone it should be against the law to not have this in your collection, is it raining at your house will send chills on your neck & the title track is so good all you can do is shake your head knowing you just heard something absolutely amazing, early george was incredible but vern made a big footprint with this album
You are right, Vern Gosdin is one of the few whose voice can raise the hairs on your neck; chiseled in stone is liable to send tears down my cheeks if I'm by myself
One thing I learned from a lifetime of involvement in everything from 60's rock and folk, to decades in symphonic music. Been on stage with everyone from Country Joe and the Fish to Andre Previn, Henry Mancini, Doc Severinson, Itzahk Perlman. Even took Gladys Knight and her son fishing between rehearsal and concert. What I learned is that obsessing about the human performers who you don't ever really know, distracts you from the gift from God that is their talent. Some take care of it, some do not. Some glorify it with their lives, some do not. It's not for us to know, or judge. What is permanent is that gift from God. If you don't hear it in "Cold Hard Truth", and "Galveston", you are stuck in Art kindergarten. Hell, I know great players who don't like Mahler. There was only one Hank Williams, one George Jones, and there's only one life to hear and accept them all. Stop judging and start loving.
Boy, would you consider Charlie Prides "Behind Closed Doors" country? If so, I'll go with that...Love hearing Kenny tell his tales, he's so adamant about what he's saying, it gets to ya....Best Otis....😎
Agree with Vaughan, I love George on Starday, Mercury, Musicor, et al. But what about George's earlier recs with beautiful, great country singer Melba Montgomery. George had a thing for her, but she was married and not interested, but they sang amazing, Waylon once said, "If we could all sound like we want to, we'd all sound like George Jones..."
Your brand of sound and story telling warms my soul. You mentioned putting shows on around places we would not normally think of. I got a fenced in yard with plenty of room. We have McGregor Hall here too. Give it a Google. How do we arrange this? I don't need to list my email or phone number but I would like to know what we need to make a show happen down here. We're middle age and work hard. Music History is my favorite besides listening to the songs themselves. Please let me know if possible. Many Thanks!
I wonder if this is true…Years ago.1983-85 +-, I lived in Tyler Texes,and worked as a drywall/metal stud framer. I had a coworker named Tuffy Webb,and at that time it was hard to say how old Tuffy was,he was a hard drinker with many stories. He said he used to play guitar with/or for George Jones. I believe Tuffy was from the area/town called “ Center” Texas.I was 21 at the time and again,its hard to say how old Tuffy was …anyway,he brought his guitar and amp one day and plugged in sounded great…. Did anyone out there know Tuffy Webb,and if he indeed did play with George Jones.
Ironically I think George's best period was from when he signed at Epic in 1972 to his masterpiece, semi-autobiographical record, "I Am What I Am" in 1980. Everything after that, like "The One I Loved Back Then" can go to the dogs (or the possums, better yet), though. Billy Sherrill was able to smooth out the rough edges of George's music just enough for it to sound classy and cerebral, without losing any of George's soul and grit, like the best Ray Charles records.
I'm generally a metal dude and George Jones is my all time favorite singer. Glad to see some more of him on the channel. As a George Jones super fan, enthusiast, and (unofficial) historian I have to partially agree with with Kenny. I still like He Stopped Loving Her Today, but yeah it is far from the greatest country song, and doesnt even make my top 10 for George Jones songs. However, writing off entire decades of George Jones' career is way too harsh. He was a belligerent drunk for most of the 70s espescially, but that doesnt mean he didnt have anything good to put in the world after the 60s, and if I had to rank them, I would say the 70s ties with the 60s for best time period in a musical sense. Anyway. Thanks & keep up the possum content!
Hmmm - "opinions", like belly buttons, almost everyone has one 🙂, I like that song and love the way GJ delivered it. I never understood why people say GJ had the best voice but have to acknowledge the times I saw him on TV I liked him - and that shinning D45 he played on the opery every of often was a beautiful thing to see.
Love Kenny Vaughn and I respect his opinion. But two of my favorite GJ songs happen to be The King Is Gone and Choices and both of those songs came out after 1970. I agree with him He Stopped Loving Her Today is a garbage record. I actually hate that song. Hope to see a lot more videos of Kenny Vaughn I can listen to him talk all day. He's about to head to Europe with Marty Stuart. Wish they'd come back to Florida soon
Mr Bojangles - is that a country song? My favourite anyway. Seems that song followed me through life: as a teen in the 70's it was playing on the jukebox in every bar I walked into; then the Nitty Gritties did a version; Nina Simone: Robby Williams; Sammy Davis Jnr; and one night I wandered into a bar in Sydney Australia and there was Jerry Jeff himself on stage. Now a days I play golf with an old man who tells stories about his life, wears a ragged shirt and baggy pants and every now and then sinks a long putt and does a little dance across the green, clicks his heels - yeah we call him Bojangles.
Interesting. I'm about a half-arsed music historian, so... I'd cross reference this against Tyler Mahan Coe's take and the take from ... the Musician's Hall of Fame's proprietor . " When the legend becomes fact, print the legend.” - "The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance". "Complicated" isn't even a start on Jones.
my daddy and George were gettin drunk buddies,daddy would tell stories that would curdle your milk!! i made my livin playing for 50 years,never played with George but worked in bands with a zillion folks who did...like kenny said..."he didnot give a shit" !!
In your opinion, what's the greatest country song of all time?
Impossible question, but I'd put "Born to Lose" and "I Can't Help It" in the list for consideration.
Merle Haggard, Footlights
Too many to choose from but off the top of my head Patsy Cline with Willie's "Crazy"
I really like Sunday morning coming down, and The last thing I needed first thing this morning!
"I'm So Lonesome I Could Cry" gets my vote.
I guess a "checked out" greatest country singer to ever live is still better than almost all of the rest. "The Grand Tour" (1974) is one of my favorite country songs. It stands up well to any country song you'd want to put it up against.
To each their own, but I wouldn't put it anywhere near the best country songs ever.
The Grand Tour and The Door. Two of the greatest ever.
I do not agree with this assessment, but I love and respect all of Kenny's stories and anecdotes. Thanks for this!
I agree with you.
I also agree with you. Very few vocalists in any genre of music can drive the emotion of a song into the heart of the listener.
Most are lucky to be capable technicians. The George Jones, Patsy Clines and Karen Carpenters ( to name a few ) are rare indeed.
Same here. Music is subjective, so Kenny's opinion isn't right or wrong, it's his opinion. Doesn't change how I feel about him or George Jones post 1970.
I absolutely want to hear more Kenny Vaughn stories. He is the real deal and can tell a great story!
I agree
Absolutely!
I'm enjoying his candor and honesty. The real deal.
Not to brag, but I went to see Marty, Kenny & the guys last week from the 12th row. First time seeing them in person & all I can say is they’re all the real deal. They came out & blew the roof off the place for an hour & a half. Kenny was doing some things on the guitar I’ve never seen. Looked like Marty was just smiling at him when he’d do something cool. They did El Paso & Kenny made it look easy. Now I’m trying to improve my guitar playing & figure out some of those licks.
I love Kenny. I disagree with him on the Billy Sherill songs and the Possum. But I like that he is so opinionated and outspoken.
It’s OK for this guy to not like “He Stopped Loving Her”. I’m going to go ahead and keep it as one of my favorites.
Me too i totally get his point about the schlock l even agree, but that's a great song
Being entitled to my humble opinion I think it's the best song ever about unrequited love, arguably the best country song ever.
The album "A Picture of Me Without You" was recorded in 1972 and contained stripped down production along with some of George's best singing. With songs like "Let There Be Woman", "Tomorrow Never Comes", "A Picture of Me Without You" and "On The Back Row" this album is proof that George was not done in 1970 and still could deliver a heartfelt performance. But that's just like, my opinion man...
Say what you want about the possum but that man gave some of the best vocal performances of all time during the 90s
I agree!
Yes, I saw him perform @ the Civic Centre in McMinnville TN in February of 1992 and it was good.
Man, I’m so glad someone finally said it. I’ve always wondered why so many people have called “He Stopped Loving Her Today”. I thought I was the only one.
George didn't like the song, but it made him a boat load of $$,not to mention the awards!
I saw Kenny last Friday night in Waco, Texas. Marty Stuart & His Fabulous Superlatives were playing all acoustic and Kenny tore it up all night. What an amazing player.
I was there with you friend. Still have goosebumps. They sounded amazing.
Damn, Kenny, you got his career over about the time it got going; if he was done by 1970, 80% of the world would have never heard of him; the country music market in 1970 was tiny by todays standards. His comeback album in 1980 was a monster with He Stopped Loving Her Today driving sales, and the neo traditional revival in the late 80's boosted his fame and career to icon status. If you're trying to say that he became a parody of himself to some degree and just mailed it in after 1970. I'd buy that:)
The more I hear Kenny the more I respect him. What an accomplished musician and incredible source of knowledge and a wealth of info. Love to see him playing with Dave Roe.
He is so spot on here it unbelievable!!! ‘Window up above’ is a classic!
My favorite George song would have to be, "From The Window Up Above". Got to see George live in "82.The clarity in his voice was/is simply unmatched!
I loved his early stuff. But the later album with 'Choices' and 'Always wanting you' were pretty darn good!!
George cut a song that I wrote with Alex Harvey “Gotta get to Louisiana”. That will forever stand as my proudest achievement during my nashville years. 1993-2012.
Enjoying the videos and of course love all of Kenny’s stuff. The best.
Can't get enough of Cousin Kenny. I was surprised but happy to hear him tell the bald faced truth about George Jones in his later career. Even the greats like George weren't always great and it's disrespectful to them to pretend their lesser works are praiseworthy. I'm waiting for someone to tell the truth about Chet Atkins. For all his guitar mastery and promotional skills, he had a profoundly negative effect on country music, adding violins and choral background groups, and turning good honest music into homogenized schlock. Some of the songwriters and performers from those days were so good their work still managed to shine through the sappy orchestrations. Chet hated the movement to free country music from these pop trappings and make the lyrics more honest and gritty. He was no friend to Bill Joe Shaver, Waylon, Willy, or the boys. Chet deserves mad respect for his guitar work but not for his producing and attempt to turn country music into the Lawrence Welk hour. I know I'll catch hell from anyone who reads this, but it's the truth (more or less) and I stand by it.
You won’t catch hell from me because I almost completely agree with you. The Nashville Sound worked for a very small group of singers, Jim Reeves, for example, but it mostly sucked.
I agree ☝️
I understand where he's coming from he's an artist, he's a purist but if I had a choice to see marty stuart or 90's live george jones I would pick the possum
I don’t understand where he’s coming from, it almost sounds like he has a personal block or something. But I do agree, I’d rather here George do Choices than here Marty Stuart do anything.
I'm so glad to hear Kenny say this. I've always thought that song was so overwrought and too cute at the same time. Give me "Talk to Me O Lonesome Heart" or a hundred others.
Kenny is not wrong,,,,, technically,,,,,, BUT,,, BIG CHUNKS of the post 1970 Billy Sherrill Epic stuff that Jones put out were and is awesome and He Stopped Loving Her Today wasn't pure hardcore country but it was one hell of a song and production and I and millions more love it...
Agreed my friend.
I'm not enough of an expert on George's later periods to know if I agree with what Kenny says or not. I've always preferred music that's raw and spontaneous and that's often earlier in an artists career. I don't think it's unusual for a artist to lose it creatively a bit as they go on. Arguably Stevie Wonder lost it after his great run of 70s albums. Johnny Cash too. But Johnny came back wonderfully and unexpectedly towards the end of his career with those Rick Rubin produced albums
Cousin Kenny is the real deal. I love these interviews. Honest and to the point. Keep em coming!
We love hearing Kenny’s stories. Our two favorites of his stories were the one about Tom Petty and the one about Jerry Lee Lewis, so far anyway.
Thank you Kenny and thank you Otis. We are so happy we found you!
Definitely love to hear more stories!
Man I love it when you talk to Kenny. Don't get me wrong your other interviews are awsome but there's something about Kenny V. It's the odd stuff that he has knowledge of that sounds so fresh. He's the real deal! Excellent stuff!
Thanx for saving me some time Kenny , Ive been covering race is on and white lighting ,always wanted to dive into George's catalog
I got on a Bobby Whitlock kick, when his most excellent wife began recording and posting his memoirs! I love Kenny’s conversations with Otis even more! Kenny’s breadth of personal experiences span a much greater time frame, than Bobby’s. Whitlock experienced a true golden period of music, but Kenny has rubbed shoulders with everyone in country music, roots music, many bluesmen, not to mention the rock’n roll guys!
Cheers!
Kenny's absolutely wrong about this song. From what I saw thru the George and Tammy years in the press. This was their life, laid bare, in a real Country song. It's right up there in the Country Music pantheon with "Stand By Your Man' and "Islands in the Stream', Wichita Lineman,' Galveston, not to mention Charlie Rich's 'Most Beautiful Girl' and Behind Closed Doors'. I'd bet there's a HUGE, chunk of country fans that would disagree with him. I'd guess they'd be the vast majority of the music BUYING audience.
Yep
Yeah, the slick and sickly arranged country-pop stuff with no real roots is great. NOT
Hello Buddy Lobos:
"Islands in the Stream" = The best "country fluff" song ever recorded.
Mr Gibbs. Thank-you for introducing me to your friend Kenny Vaughn. I'd never heard of him. So I researched. Now he's my current favorite! Fab musician, bee charmer personality.
After watching him play "bonanza " at some Paris France gig, I would recommend to Mr Vaughn to have a box of business cards made that say: Kenny Vaughan American Guitar Player- Have fingers- No Hips-Will Travel 🤣🤣🤣🤣❤
Wichita Lineman is probably my favorite. Fantastic production!
George was country and he never strayed from it. I loved all his music no matter what year it was. It was country period. The other shit mentioned was pop country.
Each of these are treasures. Thank you Maestro.
I used to watch every Nascar race for years. Gorge sang the national anthem at a race and it's the best there ever was. No one came close.
Abso-funkin-lutley! Whitney who? The Possum nailed it!
Thanks . Kenny is the real deal enjoyed.
I love kenny Vaughan true stories
I used to work in a nursing home in Jasper, Tx. Most of the residents had a George story of seeing him walking the backroads barefoot with a guitar or saw him in the early days playing in the local dancehalls.
Damn, I finished the video, you guys mentioned Melba, bless ya. George cut some good things in that era!
You just gotta love Kenny.
Brad Paisley and Alison Krauss Whiskey Lullaby gets me every time. Also Willie Nelson’s Angel Flying Too Close To The Ground 😇
Man I sure do love these interviews and must say you 'n Kenny have the most excellent smiles, well done! Great stories great conversation and now, after additional research, I now know who the hell Kenny Vaughan is and what an extraordinary musician! Thank you Otis!
I admire Kenny's forthrightness about George. And he would know better than I if George checked out after 1970. But Jones still put out some great songs after that, IMHO.On an unrelated note, Kenny is a hoss-cat on the guitar. And I like his stories. Cheers!
I’m a fan of Kenny Vaughan and have enjoyed his interviews and stories. His playing, experience and attitude are a wealth. I can certainly understand what he’s saying here, but to discount George Jones’ career after 1970 until his passing in 2013 is pretty harsh. I get where he’s coming from, I love the raw old country too. I wish the masses could realize how good of a Country song the original version of Tennessee Whiskey is rather the admirable, but decidedly dumbed down version I have to play in bars now . . Nobody gets the George version. Sad.
Hey Otis! I just got tickets for The Superlatives in Leeds! Can’t wait man! Tell Kenny, Im the guy up in the box with hair like Johnny Winter! I’d sure love to say hello to my favourite band!
Looking forward to more stories. Do Kenny or any of your pals know any Gary Stewart stories?
Kenny coming with the hot takes. I love it even if I don’t necessarily agree!
Same!
Just to hear the “second second hand” stories is fun, if not enlightening....
It’s always good to “think over” someone else’s story or viewpoint.... you never know , it could change or Broaden your perspective and perception.... like acquired wisdom, you absorb it just by listening and keeping an open mind.....
@@paultorbert6929 I couldn't agree more. I absolutely love hearing these stories and just taking in these little bits of information from people who actually have been around these legends. Huge props to Otis for giving these people the platform for these stories we may have never heard otherwise.
I agree
Brother Kenny knows. Crewcut jones was a legend. Still young and strong and incredible. Lost a step or two after that. Lots of amazing songs and performances in the later years but not the same. Go listen to the early stuff - there’s magic to him then. Absolute legend!
I’m loving the Kenny and Otis power hour.
Love his storytelling
The only unfortunate thing about Kenny Vaughn is he was born too late to have been a musician in The Wrecking Crew.
I think he never would have wanted to be confined to the studio as those guys (and Carol) were, but I see your point. He’s a guy who can add quality to any song or performer.
If he had been in the Wrecking Crew, chances are he'd be dead by now. He's done his share of session work, too. I'm glad we still have him now, playing and telling stories from his POV.
Saw Uncle Kenny in Alexandria the other night...he was great!
I revere Kenny V. When he speaks, I frikkin listen. If this guy don't know, nobody in music does.
I respect Kenny a great deal, and I love his stories, but as far as George checking out after 1970? I can't agree with that. His run with Tammy, then all those great songs in the early 80s like "Still Doing Time" "Someday My Day Will Come" "20 years in 5" and others, that was some of the most riveting country music ever. There was a reason that a major publication (New York Times?) in the late 70s, early 80s, called him the "Holy Ghost of country music." You don't get an accolade like that without doing something right. The tragic thing that will always be about George, is the "What if?" If cocaine and too much booze had never reared its ugly head, who knows how much greater he would have been? We'll never know the songs that we missed out on.
Also know, George's last record, The Cold Hard Truth was actually good. But again, I agree. Sorry I'm posting all these comments, but George is my favorite vocalist. Dylan probably fav artist. Guitarist: Carlos Montoya and/or Lonnie Johnson.
George said the song wouldn’t sell because it was too damn melancholy ! He never publicly said he didn’t like it .
Kenny does real well w/telling it like it was & is. 'Schlock', I haven't heard anyone else use that one besides myself in long while. The 'industry' treats talent & entertainers like human juke boxes. Shove 'em in a box. Push the buttons, spins them 'round & gives up a quarter, while the dollars go elsewhere.
Any man who likes a man who likes to cut grass, is a man that I would be proud to call a friend.
I think people loved “He Stopped Loving Her Today”, because of George’s relationship with Tammy. My grandparents owned a beer joint and George Jones was always on the jukebox. I’m not sure if it was because of his music or because grandpa, pulled a similar stunt on his lawnmower.🤣
I agree that the style changed. But Checked out no Sir. So many great albums were made in the 70s/80s/ and 90s. The first one with Merle was amazing. And in 95 did amazing one with Tammy .and lots of more great duets and Solo Albums. George always had great Rd Band and did some very great live shows . Lots on You Tube over the Yrs. As someone that has almost everything he recorded he was great up to his car wreck in 1999. Lost some of his tone then . And faded sadly . YES HSLHT not my fav either. But he made something special of it . Diary of my Mind. One of my big favs
This guy is spitting mad facts.
If loving HSLHT is wrong then I don't want to be right. However it can't be the greatest country song because it doesn't mention anything about mama, trains, trucks, prison or getting drunk. I can appreciate Kenny's insight and thank him for sharing though.
Respectfully disagree with Kenny about the post 70's George Jones but I get where he's coming from. And he's spot-on with his assessment of Jones and Melba Montgomery, arguably the greatest country duet ever, far superior to the later stuff with T. Wynette.
Sherrill insisted that Wynette sing things like 'Apartment number 9.' That was '66. So who knows why people ended up doing what they did. Mr Vaughan used the word 'complicated,' and that probably sums up a lot of people's careers at that time....'Good Year For The Roses' isn't a bad tune.
Somewhat agree, but there were definitely gems. The “George Jones and The Smoky Mountain Boys” album cut in the early 70’s(not released until much later) is one of my favorites where he covers old standards, like Wabash Cannonball and some Hank Williams numbers too. I play along with it all the time and George was on point on that album, and all good songs, too!
Kenny seems like a good dude.
@@martytew6056 - Please continue. Why do you feel that this opinion is inept?
@@martytew6056 - That's very shocking to hear. I don't even know who you are anymore.
You hear it all the time, you should've seen (?) when they were younger etc. From a fan perspective though, I'm just glad he stayed around long enough for me to see him a few times. As to your question, I don't think I could even pick one.
Just an observation from the videos cover photo - ... If a George Jones movie ever gets put together within the next 20 years or so, Jim Carrey would be a solid cast for the lead roll.
Also, thanks much for yet another quality upload fellas. ... Tis very much appreciated 🙏👍😃.
God I love his stories!!! He’s right ass on !
Kenny's a good Dude. We talked gear a few times after shows.
Musicor era George records for me, especially the stuff with Melba Montgomery, although I’ll take them all over most any other singer.
I need more info on this subject from Mr. Vaughan.
I’m a big fan of Kenny and of George Jones. I hope someday you can do a piece with Kenny that articulates George’s complexities in a meaningful way so we can get a better idea of what George was going through and the perception of him that his peers had from 1970 to the end of his career.
Yep Nicely said
The greatest country album ever made thats pretty simple, vern gosdin--- chiseled in stone it should be against the law to not have this in your collection, is it raining at your house will send chills on your neck & the title track is so good all you can do is shake your head knowing you just heard something absolutely amazing, early george was incredible but vern made a big footprint with this album
I also think that Vern Gosdin is one of the best. What an album indeed.
aka, "The Voice"
Waylon Jennings " Honky Tonk Heroes" for me. But Vern is great.
You are right, Vern Gosdin is one of the few whose voice can raise the hairs on your neck; chiseled in stone is liable to send tears down my cheeks if I'm by myself
One thing I learned from a lifetime of involvement in everything from 60's rock and folk, to decades in symphonic music. Been on stage with everyone from Country Joe and the Fish to Andre Previn, Henry Mancini, Doc Severinson, Itzahk Perlman. Even took Gladys Knight and her son fishing between rehearsal and concert. What I learned is that obsessing about the human performers who you don't ever really know, distracts you from the gift from God that is their talent. Some take care of it, some do not. Some glorify it with their lives, some do not. It's not for us to know, or judge. What is permanent is that gift from God. If you don't hear it in "Cold Hard Truth", and "Galveston", you are stuck in Art kindergarten. Hell, I know great players who don't like Mahler. There was only one Hank Williams, one George Jones, and there's only one life to hear and accept them all. Stop judging and start loving.
Cousin Kenny is the coolest baddest motor scooter around,,,I would love to hang out with him for a day or two !!!!
Boy, would you consider Charlie Prides "Behind Closed Doors" country? If so, I'll go with that...Love hearing Kenny tell his tales, he's so adamant about what he's saying, it gets to ya....Best Otis....😎
Agree with Vaughan, I love George on Starday, Mercury, Musicor, et al. But what about George's earlier recs with beautiful, great country singer Melba Montgomery. George had a thing for her, but she was married and not interested, but they sang amazing, Waylon once said, "If we could all sound like we want to, we'd all sound like George Jones..."
Your brand of sound and story telling warms my soul. You mentioned putting shows on around places we would not normally think of. I got a fenced in yard with plenty of room. We have McGregor Hall here too. Give it a Google. How do we arrange this? I don't need to list my email or phone number but I would like to know what we need to make a show happen down here. We're middle age and work hard. Music History is my favorite besides listening to the songs themselves. Please let me know if possible. Many Thanks!
Carl Belew wrote some good stuff too. Impossible question!
There are 2, and they are from the Honky Tonk era. Hank's "Lovesick Blues" and Lefty's "If You've Got the Money I've Got the Time"
Kenny's awesome. Agreed about George.
Saw George near the end in a tent in Las Vegas. He needed a few songs to get his voice together & a handful of people walked out
Kenny V is one of the baddest guitar players on the damn planet and certainly in country music and I'll fight anyone who claims any different ❤️
I wonder if this is true…Years ago.1983-85 +-, I lived in Tyler Texes,and worked as a drywall/metal stud framer. I had a coworker named Tuffy Webb,and at that time it was hard to say how old Tuffy was,he was a hard drinker with many stories. He said he used to play guitar with/or for George Jones. I believe Tuffy was from the area/town called “ Center” Texas.I was 21 at the time and again,its hard to say how old Tuffy was …anyway,he brought his guitar and amp one day and plugged in sounded great…. Did anyone out there know Tuffy Webb,and if he indeed did play with George Jones.
Ironically I think George's best period was from when he signed at Epic in 1972 to his masterpiece, semi-autobiographical record, "I Am What I Am" in 1980. Everything after that, like "The One I Loved Back Then" can go to the dogs (or the possums, better yet), though. Billy Sherrill was able to smooth out the rough edges of George's music just enough for it to sound classy and cerebral, without losing any of George's soul and grit, like the best Ray Charles records.
They didn't call him" George " No Show" Jones for nuthin.
I'm generally a metal dude and George Jones is my all time favorite singer. Glad to see some more of him on the channel. As a George Jones super fan, enthusiast, and (unofficial) historian I have to partially agree with with Kenny. I still like He Stopped Loving Her Today, but yeah it is far from the greatest country song, and doesnt even make my top 10 for George Jones songs. However, writing off entire decades of George Jones' career is way too harsh. He was a belligerent drunk for most of the 70s espescially, but that doesnt mean he didnt have anything good to put in the world after the 60s, and if I had to rank them, I would say the 70s ties with the 60s for best time period in a musical sense. Anyway. Thanks & keep up the possum content!
Old Man From The Mountain by Merle Haggard or maybe Wedding Bells by Hiram Williams
Kenny is one heck of a player.
Hmmm - "opinions", like belly buttons, almost everyone has one 🙂, I like that song and love the way GJ delivered it. I never understood why people say GJ had the best voice but have to acknowledge the times I saw him on TV I liked him - and that shinning D45 he played on the opery every of often was a beautiful thing to see.
Well how about THE Bartender Blues album
He’s back..,
Love Kenny Vaughn and I respect his opinion. But two of my favorite GJ songs happen to be The King Is Gone and Choices and both of those songs came out after 1970. I agree with him He Stopped Loving Her Today is a garbage record. I actually hate that song. Hope to see a lot more videos of Kenny Vaughn I can listen to him talk all day. He's about to head to Europe with Marty Stuart. Wish they'd come back to Florida soon
Mr Bojangles - is that a country song? My favourite anyway. Seems that song followed me through life: as a teen in the 70's it was playing on the jukebox in every bar I walked into; then the Nitty Gritties did a version; Nina Simone: Robby Williams; Sammy Davis Jnr; and one night I wandered into a bar in Sydney Australia and there was Jerry Jeff himself on stage. Now a days I play golf with an old man who tells stories about his life, wears a ragged shirt and baggy pants and every now and then sinks a long putt and does a little dance across the green, clicks his heels - yeah we call him Bojangles.
and Eric checked out then according to Kenny- and l believe him wholeheartedly
HOT takes.
" He went to bed five cars later. "
Interesting. I'm about a half-arsed music historian, so...
I'd cross reference this against Tyler Mahan Coe's take and the take from ... the Musician's Hall of Fame's proprietor . " When the legend becomes fact, print the legend.” - "The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance". "Complicated" isn't even a start on Jones.
my daddy and George were gettin drunk buddies,daddy would tell stories that would curdle your milk!! i made my livin playing for 50 years,never played with George but worked in bands with a zillion folks who did...like kenny said..."he didnot give a shit" !!
"River" by David Allen Coe or "Sunday Morning Coming Down" by Johnny Cash written by Kris Kristofferson.
Ah, the critical Kenny... I like it 😅