About The Song
George Jones, often referred to as the “Possum,” was a master at conveying raw emotion. His distinctive, whiskey-soaked voice has touched the hearts of millions, and his songs often explore the depths of the human experience. In “I’m Not Ready Yet,” Jones delivers a powerful and poignant plea, grappling with mortality and the fear of the unknown.
Released in 1980 as part of the album “I Am What I Am,” “I’m Not Ready Yet” is a classic country ballad that explores the universal theme of aging and the inevitability of death. The lyrics, penned by T.T. Hall, paint a vivid picture of a man coming to terms with his mortality. Jones’ vocal performance is filled with raw emotion as he expresses his fear of leaving behind the people and things he loves.
The song’s arrangement is simple yet effective, allowing Jones’ vocals to take center stage. The backing instrumentation, including a mournful pedal steel guitar, creates a sense of melancholy and longing. The repetitive chorus, “I’m not ready yet,” becomes a haunting refrain that lingers in the listener’s mind long after the song ends.
“I’m Not Ready Yet” is a powerful exploration of mortality and the fear of the unknown. Jones’ ability to convey such deep emotional pain is a testament to his talent as a singer and songwriter. The song’s themes of aging, loss, and the search for meaning are universal and continue to resonate with listeners today.
“I’m Not Ready Yet” is a classic country ballad that showcases George Jones’ ability to capture the complexities of the human experience. This heart-wrenching song is a must-listen for fans of country music and anyone who appreciates great songwriting.
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Lyric
Well I always said someday I was gonna leave youSome April when all the land is wetSome spring, summer fall or maybe winterI’ll leave someday but I’m not ready yetYeah now I should of left the day I knew your love was dyingBut I passed up every date that I ever setBut I know I’ll leave when my heart tells me it’s readyI’ll leave someday, but I’m not ready yetYeah now I must have left you a hundred times but you don’t know that‘Cause I was afraid you’d laugh when you found out just how far I’d getBut you didn’t, and you don’t – I know you ain’t gonna everAnd someday I’ll go, but I’m not ready yetYeah now I should of left the day I knew your love was dyingBut I passed up every date that I ever setBut I know I’ll leave when my heart tells me it’s readyI’ll leave someday, but I’m not ready yet