George Jones – I’m a People

George Jones, the undisputed Possum of country music, was a titan of the genre, renowned for his raw emotional depth and impeccable vocal delivery.

Background

At first glance, “I’m a People” might seem like a mere novelty song, a playful ditty designed to entertain rather than provoke. However, beneath its seemingly frivolous exterior lies a song that is both clever and poignant.

The song, penned by Dallas Frazier, one of Jones’ frequent collaborators, is a humorous yet insightful.  Jones’ interpretation of the song is nothing short of masterful. His voice, typically associated with conveying profound sorrow and longing, takes on a lighthearted and almost mischievous tone.

Yet, even as he playfully sings about the absurdities of human life, one can detect an underlying undercurrent of melancholy. It’s as if Jones, the seasoned troubadour of heartbreak, is using this whimsical song as a vehicle to express a deeper, more existential weariness.

The song’s structure is deceptively simple. It’s built around a repetitive, almost hypnotic melody, which serves as a perfect backdrop for Jones’ vocal acrobatics. The lyrics, while seemingly nonsensical at first, reveal a clever commentary on the complexities of human existence.

Video

Lyrics

🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics!🎤

Every day them fools rush in,
And lay down the cash and watch me grin
I put ’em all on, I’d hum a little song,
An’ watch ’em all go tee-hee.

But I spell a P, a little bitty E.
Sweet bop, bop, bop, sh-shoo, shoobie doobie doh,
In a little round O.
Now you add another P, a big skinny L,
There’s a-one more E,
An’ you got a people that looks like, me.

Now a monkey don’t have to go down town,
An’ ask for a job an’ gettin’ turned down.
I’m mad at me, I could smash me,
‘Cause I am a people.