About the song
A Country Music Classic: George Jones’ “The Right Left Hand”
In the annals of country music, few artists have achieved the legendary status of George Jones. With his soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics, Jones captured the hearts of millions of listeners, earning him the well-deserved title of “No Show Jones” for his unwavering commitment to his craft. Among his many enduring hits, “The Right Left Hand” stands out as a poignant ballad that celebrates the transformative power of love and commitment.
Released in 1986 as the second single from Jones’ album “Wine Colored Roses”, “The Right Left Hand” quickly ascended to the number eight position on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart. The song’s success can be attributed to its relatable narrative and Jones’ masterful delivery, imbuing each line with a depth of emotion that resonates deeply with listeners.
The song’s opening lines paint a vivid picture of a man reflecting on his past relationships, acknowledging the mistakes and regrets that have shaped his life. “I’ve been through the heartache, I’ve been through the pain / I’ve been down so low, I thought I’d never rise again” he sings, his voice laced with vulnerability and longing.
As the song progresses, the narrator’s tone shifts, infused with a newfound hope and optimism. He encounters a woman who captures his heart, rekindling his belief in the possibility of lasting love. “But then I met you, and you changed my whole life / You showed me what love’s really like” he declares, his voice filled with gratitude and affection.
The chorus of “The Right Left Hand” serves as a powerful declaration of commitment, a testament to the transformative power of love. “I’m gonna put a golden band on the right left hand / And I’m gonna love you the best I can” Jones sings, his voice unwavering in its conviction.
The song’s bridge offers a poignant reflection on the narrator’s past experiences, acknowledging the lessons learned and the growth achieved. “I’ve been through the fire, I’ve been through the rain / But I’m gonna make it this time, I’m gonna make it again” he sings, his voice filled with determination and resilience.
“The Right Left Hand” concludes with a reaffirmation of the narrator’s unwavering love and commitment. “I’m gonna put a golden band on the right left hand / And I’m gonna love you forever and a day” Jones declares, his voice resonating with sincerity and devotion.
“The Right Left Hand” stands as a timeless country music classic, a testament to the enduring power of love and commitment. George Jones’ heartfelt performance and the song’s relatable narrative have made it a favorite among country music fans for generations, ensuring its place in the genre’s rich history.
Video
Lyrics
“The Right Left Hand”
I’ve cried a million tears,
Down through the years.
Searching for that special one.
And the vows I took before,
Where all forever more,
But no matter how I tried they came undone.Then the good lord finally gave me
The true love of a lady,
Someone who believes in me.
And she lets me know each day,
That love is here to stay.
I finally found someone who’ll never leave.[Chorus:]
I put a golden band on the right left hand this time,
And the right left hand put a golden band on mine.
When our hair is snowy white,
Time will prove I’m right.
I put a golden band on the right left hand this time.I’ll never have to reach
For the love that my heart needs,
She’ll be close enough to touch.
And when the nights are long and cold,
She’ll be there to hold,
All dressed up for one more night of love.[Chorus:]
I put a golden band on the right left hand this time,
And the right left hand put a golden band on mine.
When our hair is snowy white,
Time will prove I’m right.
I put a golden band on the right left hand this time.I put a golden band on the right left hand this time…