Introduction to “The Possum” by George Jones
Jones, often referred to as “The Possum” for his unique facial features and “The Rolls-Royce of Country Music” for his smooth, powerful voice, built a career on singing about life’s hard knocks. “Choices” is no exception.
Background
Released in 1975, “Choices” wasn’t initially Jones’ cup of tea. The song became a smash hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and even earning Jones his second Grammy Award for Best Male Country Vocal Performance. It’s easy to see why.
“Choices” is a masterclass in country storytelling. The lyrics are deceptively simple, a series of reflections on the path not taken. “I’ve made a lot of bad choices, since the day I was born,” Jones sings in that instantly recognizable baritone, a voice weathered by experience and maybe a touch of heartache.
But “Choices” isn’t just about regrets. It’s also about the power of taking responsibility. He acknowledges the choices he made, the forks in the road where he took a different turn. There’s a sense of acceptance in his voice, a weary wisdom that comes from living a life full of both triumphs and stumbles.
It became an anthem for anyone who’s ever felt like they’ve messed up, a reminder that we all make choices, good and bad, and that it’s never too late to learn from them and forge a new path.
“Choices” is more than just a country song. It’s a timeless piece of music that speaks to the universal human experience. It’s a song about regrets, yes, but also about resilience, about the power of owning your story and finding a way to keep moving forward.
Video
Lyrics
🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤
I’ve had choices
Since the day that I was born
There were voices
That told me right from wrong
If I had listened
No, I wouldn’t be here today
Living and dying
With the choices I’ve made
— Instrumental —
I guess I’m payin’
For the things that I have done
If I could go back
Oh, Lord knows I’d run
But I’m still losin’
This game of life I play
Living and dying
With the choices I’ve made
Harley
I am the one who he never spoke of, and I didn’t speak to him when I had the choice, now I am living and dying with the choices I made, I’m sorry I didn’t speak with him when I had a chance to, now I never will get another chance…..