In a heartfelt homage to the iconic George Jones, Great Performances presents “George Jones: Still Playin’ Possum,” a star-studded concert featuring country music’s finest talents. Set to air on February 23, this special event commemorates the 10th anniversary of Jones’ passing and showcases unforgettable renditions of his timeless classics.
Held at the Von Braun Center in Huntsville, Alabama, on April 25, 2023, the tribute concert brought together a constellation of renowned artists, including Brad Paisley, Wynonna, Jelly Roll, and more. Each performer breathed new life into Jones’ legendary hits, from the poignant “He Stopped Loving Her Today” to the spirited “White Lightning.”
The concert lineup featured an array of unforgettable performances, such as Travis Tritt’s rendition of “The Race Is On,” Lorrie Morgan’s soulful take on “A Picture of Me Without You,” and Wynonna and Jamey Johnson’s captivating duet of “Golden Ring.” Other highlights included Brad Paisley’s stirring interpretation of “He Stopped Loving Her Today” and Michael Ray’s spirited rendition of “I Don’t Need Your Rockin’ Chair,” accompanied by Tracy Byrd, Janie Fricke, and Dillon Carmichael.
Notably, George Jones’ unparalleled legacy in country music was celebrated throughout the evening. With 79 top 10 hits and 10 number one hits to his name, including the timeless “He Stopped Loving Her Today,” Jones remains one of the genre’s most influential figures. Throughout his illustrious career, he garnered numerous accolades, including induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame, membership in the Grand Ole Opry, and recognition as a Kennedy Center Honoree and Grammy Lifetime Achievement award recipient.
Songs Performed
- Songs Performed: “Who’s Gonna Fill Their Shoes” – performed by Jamey Johnson
- “The Race Is On” – performed by Travis Tritt
- “Why Baby Why” – performed by Dierks Bentley
- “A Picture of Me Without You” – performed by Lorrie Morgan
- “She Still Thinks I Care” – performed by Sara Evans
- “Golden Ring” – performed by Wynonna and Jamey Johnson
- “I Always Get Lucky With You” – performed by Gretchen Wilson
- “Same Ole Me” – performed by Trace Adkins and The Issacs
- “One Woman Man” – performed by Tim Watson
- “The One I Loved Back Then” – performed by Tracy Lawrence and Tim Watson
- “The Blues Man” – performed by Sam Moore “Choices” – performed by Aaron Lewis
- “White Lightning” – performed by Justin Moore
- “The Grand Tour” – performed by Tanya Tucker
- “Window Up Above” – performed by Uncle Kracker
- “The Door” – performed by Travis Tritt
- “A Few Ole Country Boys” – performed by Joe Nichols, Justin Moore, and Randy Travis
- “Yesterday’s Wine” – performed by Charlie Starr and Jamey Jonson
- “If Drinkin’ Don’t Kill Me” – performed by Joe Nichols
- “Bartender’s Blues” – performed by Jelly Roll
- “He Stopped Loving Her Today” – performed by Brad Paisley
- “I Don’t Need Your Rockin’ Chair” – performed by Michael Ray with Tracy Byrd, Janie Fricke and Dillon Carmichael
Great Performances, a staple of cultural programming on PBS for over 50 years, continues its tradition of showcasing the best in performing arts. With 67 Emmy Awards and six Peabody Awards to its credit, the series remains America’s premier platform for diverse artistic expression. Audiences can enjoy exclusive content and full episodes on the Great Performances website and stream the series on the PBS App across various platforms.
Join us as we honor the enduring legacy of George Jones and celebrate the rich tapestry of country music on February 23. Tune in to Great Performances for an unforgettable tribute to a true legend.