UNRELEASED GEORGE JONES RECORDINGS RESURFACE: ‘THE LOST NASHVILLE SESSIONS’ SET FOR NOVEMBER 15 RELEASE!
George Jones fans are in for a treat with the announcement of the new album, George Jones: The Lost Nashville Sessions set to release on November 15 on Country Rewind Records. Originally recorded for radio airplay in the 1970s, these tracks have been enhanced, capturing Jones’ signature sound by bringing the audio quality up to twenty-first-century standards. This was achieved by subtly adding instrumentation and background vocals beneath Jones’ voice where needed.
The record features sixteen tracks, including both beloved hits and lesser-known recordings. Many will recognize iconic songs like “The Race Is On,” “The Grand Tour,” “White Lightnin’,” and “Tender Years.” This collection also brings to light rare recordings of tracks such as “Old Brush Arbors,” “She’s Mine,” “Four-O-Thirty-Three,” and “The Honky Tonk Downstairs,” which was premiered by American Songwriter.
“Music truly is the gift that keeps giving,” shares Nancy Jones. “Even after all these years, we’re still releasing new music from George. This collection features sixteen songs, and while some may be familiar hits, these versions are ones you’ve never heard before. I’m thrilled to share them with all of his devoted fans.”
These recordings were initially made exclusively for artist promotion, often completed in just one or two takes with an announcer’s voice between songs. Once aired, the tapes were often discarded or destroyed by the stations. Country Rewind Records President and Executive Producer Thomas Gramuglia discovered the original boxed master tapes and recognized that true fans would appreciate hearing these timeless recordings despite their poor condition after years of neglect. With the help of producer Paul Martin, George Jones: The Lost Nashville Sessions provides a unique collection of George Jones’ music that showcases his emotional depth and lasting influence on country music.
Nancy Jones recently released Playin’ Possum: My Memories of George Jones, offering an intimate look at her life with the legendary country singer. Married for over 30 years, Nancy stood by George through his battles with addiction, alcoholism, and self-destructive behaviors, becoming instrumental in saving both his life and career. Known as “The Possum,” George Jones is regarded as one of the greatest country music singers of all time, and Nancy’s account reveals the highs and lows of their tumultuous life together. Her unwavering love and determination shine throughout the memoir. To purchase Playin’ Possum: My Memories of George Jones.
Also recently at the 45th annual Telly Awards, country music was well-represented as Still Playin’ Possum: Music & Memories of George Jones emerged as a top winner. The program took home a Gold statue for Best Music Performance (Television), along with Bronze statues for Best Entertainment Program (Television) and Best Live Event & Experience (Television).
Artists included in Still Playin’ Possum: Music & Memories of George Jones were Brad Paisley, Dierks Bentley, Jelly Roll, Tanya Tucker, Wynonna, Jamey Johnson, Trace Adkins, Travis Tritt, Sam Moore, Sara Evans, Justin Moore, Joe Nichols, Lorrie Morgan, Uncle Kracker, Gretchen Wilson, Aaron Lewis, Tracy Lawrence, Michael Ray, Tracy Byrd, Blackberry Smoke’s Charlie Starr, Dillon Carmicheal, The Isaacs, T. Graham Brown, Janie Fricke, Tim Watson, and Lisa Matassa all performed songs that Jones made hits.