About the song
A Countrypolitan Classic: George Jones’ “When the Grass Grows Over Me”
In the realm of country music, few voices resonate with the emotional depth and heartfelt sincerity of George Jones. Known as the “Possum,” Jones’s legacy is etched in the annals of country music as one of its most influential and revered figures. Among his extensive repertoire of country classics, “When the Grass Grows Over Me” stands as a poignant ballad that has touched the hearts of listeners for generations.
Released in 1968, “When the Grass Grows Over Me” became an instant hit, reaching No. 2 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart. The song’s enduring popularity stems from its simple yet profound lyrics, penned by Don Chapel, which paint a vivid picture of mortality and the passage of time.
A Contemplation of Mortality
The song opens with a somber reflection on life’s impermanence, as Jones’s voice laments:
“When the grass grows over me And the sun shines down so bright Let me be where the water’s green And the birds sing day and night”
These opening lines set the tone for the song’s melancholic yet hopeful message, as the narrator contemplates their own mortality and seeks solace in the beauty of nature.
A Tribute to Enduring Love
As the song progresses, the lyrics shift to a poignant tribute to enduring love, as Jones sings:
“When the grass grows over me And the wildflowers bloom so wild Let me be where you can see me And know that I’m your child”
The narrator’s desire to be remembered by their loved one, even after they have passed, speaks to the power of human connection and the indelible mark that love leaves on our hearts.
A Timeless Country Classic
“When the Grass Grows Over Me” concludes with a final verse that reinforces the song’s themes of mortality and love, as Jones sings:
“When the grass grows over me And the world goes on its way I don’t care if they remember But I hope they’ll say That I lived my life the best I could And loved the ones I should”
With its simple yet profound lyrics and Jones’s heartfelt vocals, “When the Grass Grows Over Me” has become a timeless country classic that continues to resonate with listeners of all ages. It is a song that reminds us to cherish the moments we have with our loved ones and to live our lives to the fullest, knowing that our legacy will live on in the hearts of those we touch.
Video
Lyrics
“When The Grass Grows Over Me”
I’ll be your when the grass grows over me.When you left I thought that I would soon get over you
Even told myself that I would find somebody too
Time and tears have come and gone but not your memory
But I’ll be over you when the grass grows over meYes, I’ll be over you when you’re standing over me
And as you look down at the cold
Cold ground I’m sleeping in
Don’t expect to hear me say that I still love you
‘Cause I’ll be over you when the grass grows over meEven when my eyes are closed they keep on seeing you
Every minute of the night I’m hurting through and through
And as long as I live I know I won’t be free
But I’ll be over you when the grass grows over meYes, I’ll be over you when you’re standing over me
And as you look down at the cold
Cold ground I’m sleeping in
Don’t expect to hear me say that I still love you then
‘Cause I’ll be over you when the grass grows over me…