George Jones Net Worth

## The Unforgettable Legacy and Net Worth of Country Music Legend George Jones

Early Life and Influences

George Jones, a name synonymous with country music, left an indelible mark on the industry. Born George Glenn Jones on September 12, 1931, in Saratoga, Texas, he later grew up in Colmesneil, Texas. The youngest of seven children, Jones’s life was shaped by a challenging upbringing. His father, a musician, bought him his first guitar at the age of nine, instilling a love for music. He learned his first chords and songs in church.

However, Jones’s childhood was marred by his father’s alcoholism and abusive behavior. This tumultuous environment, marked by emotional and physical abuse, deeply affected Jones. Despite the adversity, music became his refuge. According to country music historian Robert K. Oermann, “You would think that it would make him not a singer because it was so abusively thrust on him. But the opposite happened; he became … someone who had to sing.”

At the age of 16, Jones left home to pursue his music career in Jasper, Texas. He performed both original songs and covers on the KTXJ radio station. He later transferred to KRIC radio station where he met his inspiration, the legendary Hank Williams, during an afternoon show, solidifying his path in country music.

Jones’s early life experiences, both positive and negative, undoubtedly shaped his future career and the emotional depth he would bring to his music.

A Storied Music Career

George Jones’s professional music career began in February 1954 with the release of his first record, “No Money in This Deal,” which marked the start of a significant relationship with producer and mentor H.W. “Pappy” Daily. His rise to prominence was rapid, with his first hit, “Why Baby Why,” in 1955. This success led to performances alongside musical icons like Elvis Presley and Johnny Cash.

In 1957, he teamed up with Jeannette Hicks, releasing several duet singles, and marking the beginning of a series of collaborations throughout his career. Their duet “Yearning” achieved Top 10 status. His groundbreaking song “White Lightnin'” in 1959 hit No. 1 on the Billboard Country chart, showcasing an “authentic rock and roll sound.”

In 1962, Jones signed with United Artists, releasing “She Thinks I Still Care,” which became one of his biggest hits. Throughout the 1960s, Jones released only one other No. 1 song, “Walk Through This World With Me” (1967). Jones’s distinctive voice, marked by a deepening timbre, became a defining characteristic of his style.

Alcoholism, Financial Hardship, and Personal Turmoil

Despite his professional success, George Jones battled personal demons. He developed a severe drinking problem, which had a profound and detrimental impact on his life and career. By 1967, years of heavy drinking and drug use led to his admission to a neurological hospital.

In 1970, after the birth of his daughter, Tamala Georgette, Jones was admitted to a psychiatric hospital after a drunken binge. Though he managed periods of sobriety, his drinking intensified throughout the decade, leading to the breakdown of his marriage in 1976.

In the late 1970s, Jones’s alcoholism spiraled out of control. Manager Shug Baggot introduced Jones to cocaine, worsening his condition. He often missed shows, leading to lawsuits and mounting debt. In 1978, facing $36,000 in child support and $1 million in debt, Jones filed for bankruptcy. He lost his home and was often homeless, struggling to find work.

In an article titled “The Devil In George Jones,” Nick Tosches described Jones as “homeless, deranged, and destitute,” with his condition so severe that he required over two years to complete his album “My Very Special Guests,” with vocal support from Willie Nelson, Linda Ronstadt, Elvis Costello, and other famous fans. He eventually sought treatment at Hillcrest Psychiatric Hospital in Birmingham, Alabama, a testament to his struggle.

Despite his unreliability, Jones could still captivate audiences with his live performances. He performed at Willie Nelson’s Fourth of July Picnic in 1976, stealing the show in front of 80,000 fans, even though he was feeling nervous.

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Revival and Triumphant Comeback

By 1980, Jones had not had a No. 1 single in six years, leading to a decline in public and critical interest. However, he made a remarkable comeback with the release of “He Stopped Loving Her Today” in 1980, which topped the country charts for 18 weeks. This song revitalized his career, leading to the HBO television special “George Jones: With a Little Help from His Friends,” in which he performed with Waylon Jennings, Elvis Costello, Tanya Tucker, and Tammy Wynette.

Jones continued to struggle with alcohol and cocaine use, though he achieved accolades for “He Stopped Loving Her Today.” In 1981, he met Nancy Sepulvado, who played a pivotal role in his life, helping him regain financial stability and manage his career, and saving him from his self-destructive habits. With her help, he maintained sobriety for most of the 1980s, releasing several successful albums.

Decline, Health Issues, and Farewell

In March 1999, Jones crashed his car, which led to drunk-driving charges. The event was a turning point, leading him to reevaluate his life and, remarkably, stop his cravings for alcohol and drugs. He released “The Gospel Collection” in 2003, produced by Billy Sherrill.

In 2008, Jones received the Kennedy Center Honor. In March 2012, he was hospitalized with an upper respiratory infection, followed by another hospitalization in May. He announced his “Grand Tour” farewell tour in August 2012, which was scheduled to stop in 60 cities. His final concert was held in Knoxville on April 2, 2013.

Jones’s final concert at the Bridgestone Arena was scheduled for November 22, 2013, but, unfortunately, he was hospitalized in April 2013 and passed away on April 26, 2013, at the age of 81, leaving behind an unparalleled legacy. He is buried in Woodlawn Cemetery in Nashville.

George Jones’ Net Worth at the Time of His Death

At the time of his death on April 26, 2013, George Jones had a net worth of $15 million. This figure reflects his successful career, which spanned decades and produced over 150 hit songs. His earnings came from his record sales, concert tours, and other ventures, solidifying his place as one of the most successful and beloved figures in country music history.