George Jones – The Grand Tour (1974)

[Album 754/1001]

I love a good misdirect.

In this case, what pictures come to mind when you hear it’s time for The Grand Tour?

I imagined I was about to be taken on a walk-through of wealth / extravagance / ostentatious decor, with no shortage of self-aggrandizement along the way.

Instead?

George Jones, somberly guiding the listener through “a lonely house that was once home sweet home.”

And after a surprising twist intro like that, I was all ears the rest of the way.

The other major standout was likely the closing track, Our Private Life, where George sings about the day-to-day experience of being a headline in tabloid magazines.

The line, “Have you ever stopped to think that he’s only a human too,” makes for a fitting closing verse to the album.

Having a bit of privacy, in a not-so-lonely house?

I think most would agree, that sounds pretty grand.

…..

Verbalize the Positive

I gather when some convert to a new religion later in life, they may become all the more fervent in their devotion.

As I am considerably late to the country party, I may be guilty of such over-the-top enthusiasm (perhaps in a bid to make up for lost time?) – but I’m certainly enjoying these classic country albums now that I’m finally here!