A Night of Honors for a Country Music Legend
George Jones, one of the most revered voices in country music history, was at the heart of the 39th annual Midsouth EMMY Awards on Saturday, February 15, 2025. The tribute special, Still Playin’ Possum: Music & Memories of George Jones, won the EMMY award for Special Event Coverage, cementing Jones’ lasting influence on the genre.
A Star-Studded Tribute to George Jones
As George Jones’ timeless music continues to reach new generations, some of country music’s most celebrated artists came together to honor his legacy. The television event, recorded at the sold-out Von Braun Center in Huntsville, Alabama, featured performances from a long list of industry stars, including:
- Brad Paisley
- Dierks Bentley
- Tanya Tucker
- Wynonna
- Jamey Johnson
- Travis Tritt
- Jelly Roll
- Justin Moore
- Joe Nichols
- Gretchen Wilson
- Trace Adkins
- Sara Evans
- Tracy Lawrence
- Lorrie Morgan
- And many more
Watch the Preview
Nancy Jones Reflects on the EMMY Win
Nancy Jones, Executive Producer of the television special and widow of George Jones, expressed her heartfelt gratitude for the award:
“I am so happy! This is the first award I have won, and to receive it honoring George is just wonderful. The last time I was on an award show stage, I was at the CMA Awards, and George ran to the bathroom just before his name was called as a CMA winner. I had to go up and accept the honor for him. Now, I get to accept this honor for myself and all the great artists that came out to honor George and his music. Whoa, did we just win an EMMY? I am so happy!”
Sponsors and Production Team Behind the Special
The tribute event was made possible with the support of sponsors such as Gus Arrendale and Springer Mountain Farms, Joe From Texas, Breland Homes, Bud Light, Fourth Capital Bank, The Broadway Group, Blaster Chemical, All Access Coach Leasing, Encore Music Group, Coca-Cola, Taziki’s Mediterranean Café, Sweet Sensational, and Biscuit Belly.
The production team included:
- Executive Producers: Nancy Jones and Kirk West (No Show Productions, LLC)
- Producers: Kirt Webster (Spinning Plates, Inc.), Luke Pierce and Ben Haley (WORKS Entertainment), Greg Hall (TH Entertainment)
- Associate Producers: Josh Bleidt, Austin Smith, Jeremy Westby
The Legacy of George Jones
Early Life and Rise to Fame
Born on September 12, 1931, in Saratoga, Texas, George Jones became one of the most influential singers in country music. His career began with street performances in Beaumont, Texas, before joining the U.S. Marine Corps. After his service, he signed with Starday Records, releasing his first Top 10 hit, Why Baby Why, in 1955.
Chart-Topping Hits and Career Highlights
Jones recorded over 160 charting singles, more than any other artist in any genre. His first No. 1 hit, White Lightning, topped the Billboard country charts in 1959. Other legendary hits include:
- She Thinks I Still Care
- The Grand Tour
- Walk Through This World With Me
- Tender Years
- He Stopped Loving Her Today (widely regarded as the greatest country song of all time)
Personal Struggles and Redemption
Throughout his career, Jones battled personal struggles, but his 1983 marriage to Nancy Ford Sepulvado marked a turning point in his life. He continued to record and perform, earning the Country Music Hall of Fame induction in 1992 and the Kennedy Center Honor in 2008.
A Lasting Influence
George Jones passed away in 2013, but his legacy remains stronger than ever. With the success of Still Playin’ Possum: Music & Memories of George Jones, his music continues to be celebrated by both longtime fans and new audiences.
Winning the Midsouth EMMY Award for Special Event Coverage is yet another testament to George Jones’ enduring influence on country music. As fans and artists continue to celebrate his legacy, Still Playin’ Possum serves as a powerful tribute to one of country music’s greatest icons.
