Tennessee Whiskey – George Jones
When “Tennessee Whiskey” was first recorded by George Jones, it carried the unmistakable ache and warmth of classic country storytelling. Released in July 1983, the song appeared on his album Shine On.
Written by Dean Dillon and Linda Hargrove, the song is a tender confession of devotion, comparing a lover’s steady comfort to the smooth burn of fine whiskey. Jones’ rich, emotional delivery turned it into a heartfelt ballad that resonated deeply with country fans.
On the charts, “Tennessee Whiskey” climbed to No. 2 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart in 1983, becoming one of the standout hits from Shine On. Though later famously reinterpreted by other artists, Jones’ original version remains a cornerstone of traditional country music — pure, vulnerable, and timeless.
Sometimes a song doesn’t just tell a love story — it feels like one. And in George Jones’ hands, “Tennessee Whiskey” is as smooth and enduring as the drink it celebrates.
