by Brenda L. Madden

George Jones, longed revered as a country music living legend, recently celebrated his 80th birthday. The festivities began in downtown Nashville at Rippy’s Smokin’ Bar & Grill with fans, friends and media on hand to deliver birthday wishes. A star-studded event, many artists dropped in to commemorate “The Possum’s” milestone including Travis Tritt, Eddy Raven, Bryan White, Guy Penrod, Ken Mellons, Billy Yates, The McClymonts, T.G. Sheppard, Kelly Lang, Razzy Bailey, Jason Michael Carroll, Elaine Roy of The Roys, Ja-mie Dailey of Dailey & Vincent and others.

That same evening, the party continued at the Grand Ole Opry with musical tributes by Alan Jackson, Lee Ann Womack, Jamey Johnson, The Oak Ridge Boys, and Joe Diffie among others. They performed some Jones’ classics like “I Don’t Need Your Rocking Chair,” “White Light-ning” and “Golden Rings.” While the music was fantastic, and the recognition heartwarming, let us not forget the “possum” cake!

Throughout the night, television cameras and microphones bombarded Jones, but he took it all in stride walking the “red carpet” in style, answering questions with ease about his career and his long, sometimes tumultuous life. Admittedly a little surprised to still be here at 80, he credits God and his wife, Nancy for saving him from his wild lifestyle. With over 50 years of music success under his belt, Jones has no plans to slow down now, which is great news for country music fans!

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