White Lightning 59 – George Jones

White Lightning 59, also known as “White Lightning,” is a classic country song recorded by George Jones. Released in 1959, it became one of Jones’ early breakthrough hits and established him as a prominent figure in the country music scene.

“White Lightning” was written by J.P. Richardson, who was better known by his stage name, The Big Bopper. The song tells the story of a moonshine brewer who produces a potent and highly sought-after whiskey called “White Lightning.” It describes the popularity and reputation of the drink, as well as the amusing and sometimes dangerous consequences of consuming it.

The song’s catchy melody, energetic rhythm, and Jones’ charismatic vocal delivery contributed to its success. “White Lightning” topped the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart for five consecutive weeks and reached number 73 on the Billboard Hot 100. It became George Jones’ first number one hit and remains one of his signature songs.

The success of “White Lightning” propelled George Jones into the spotlight and solidified his status as a traditional country music artist. He continued to release numerous chart-topping hits throughout his career and became known for his distinctive voice and emotional delivery. Jones went on to become one of the most influential and respected figures in country music history.

“White Lightning” is often cited as a classic example of the honky-tonk sound, which was popular in country music during the 1950s and 1960s. The song’s lively instrumentation, twangy guitars, and upbeat tempo captured the essence of the honky-tonk genre.

Over the years, “White Lightning” has remained a beloved country music staple and is frequently included in compilations and retrospectives of George Jones’ discography. Its enduring popularity is a testament to both the song’s quality and George Jones’ lasting impact on the genre.

In conclusion, “White Lightning” is a classic country song recorded by George Jones in 1959. Written by The Big Bopper, it tells the tale of a potent moonshine whiskey and its amusing and sometimes hazardous effects. The song’s success launched Jones’ career and helped establish him as a legendary figure in country music.

Lyrics

Well, in the North of Carolina, way back in the hills
Me and my old pappy and he had him a still
He brewed white lightnin’ till the sun went down
And then you’d fill him a jug and he’d pass it around
Mighty, mighty pleasin’, pappy’s corn squeezin’
Ssh, white lightning
Well, the “G” men, “T” men, revenuers, too
Searchin’ for the place where he made his brew
They were looking, tryin to book him, but my pappy kept on cookin’
Phoo, white lightning
Well, I asked my old pappy why he called his brew
White lightning ‘stead of mountain dew
I took a little sip and right away I knew
As my eyes bugged out and my face turned blue
Lightning started flashin’, thunder started clashin’
Fshhh, white lightnin’
Well, the “G” men, “T” men, revenuers, too
Searchin’ for the place where he made his brew
They were looking, tryin to book him but my pappy kept on cookin’
Whshh, white lightning
Well, a city slicker came and he said “I’m tough”
I think I want to taste that powerful stuff
He took one s-slug and drank it right down
And I heard him a-moaning as he hit the ground
Mighty, mighty pleasin’, your pappy’s corn squeezin’
Sshoo, white lightning
The “G” men, “T” men, revenuers, too
Searchin’ for the place where he made his brew
They were looking, tryin’ to book him but my pappy kept on cookin’
Sshoo, white lightning