Editorial Content for The Three of Us: Growing Up with Tammy and George

Editorial Content for The Three of Us: Growing Up with Tammy and George

Introduction

Georgette Jones, the daughter of country music stars Tammy Wynette and George Jones, has written a book that provides readers with a realistic glimpse into what it was like growing up as the only daughter of two legendary musicians. With her parents leading lives larger than life, Georgette found herself constantly trying to step out from under their giant shadows. Tammy Wynette, one of the three women bestowed with the title of “queen of country music” in the ’60s and ’70s, alongside Dolly Parton and Loretta Lynn, was known for singing gritty truths about the experiences of country women. This, in turn, propelled her to country stardom.

“This book will be a must-read for old fans of Tammy and George and new fans of Georgette…”

Tammy Wynette: From Beautician to Country Music Star

Tammy Wynette, an uneducated beautician hailing from the Deep South, grew up listening to the simpler yet compelling country music of the time, often performed by legends such as Patsy Cline and Hank Williams. Despite enduring early failed marriages, Tammy pushed herself into a singing career and achieved early success with her massive hit song, “Stand by Your Man.” Balancing her life between Nashville and her home, Tammy often had to bring her three young daughters to recording studios with her.

Tammy’s path eventually led her to George Jones, one of her childhood idols and a highly acclaimed singer who was also known for his struggles with alcohol. The couple’s marriage, which lasted only six years, was marked by fights and George’s drinking habits. However, their relationship became the stuff of country music legend, as they continued to record together even after their divorce, perpetuating the romanticized view of their star-crossed love. Georgette, their only child, offers a candid perspective on their relationship in her book, THE THREE OF US.

Georgette Jones: Growing Up in a Chaotic World

Georgette’s upbringing was marked by a chaotic blend of glitzy poverty and the privilege of being Tammy Wynette’s daughter. While the family enjoyed many luxuries, they ultimately owned very little. Georgette found herself in the spotlight, often regarded as the offspring of the great Tammy. The music they embraced was deeply influenced by the moral complexities of the artists themselves. Country songs spoke of standing by their men, even as those real-life men, like Georgette’s father, George, battled with alcoholism and domestic violence.

Georgette’s journey to adulthood was marked by confusion regarding the distinction between love and need. As a result, she faced her own struggles with dysfunctional relationships. Nevertheless, the book maintains a lighthearted tone, incorporating humor to navigate the challenges she faced. One anecdote shared by Georgette recalls her time in college when she visited a Nashville bartender and declined alcohol, stating, “I was staying out at Dad’s, and I didn’t think I should show up with liquor on my breath.” The bartender humorously responded, “You’re George Jones’s kid, and you don’t want him to smell alcohol on you?”

Reconciliation and Georgette’s Musical Journey

In the final pages of the book, Georgette reveals how she and George managed to reconcile following Tammy’s tragic death. Tammy had been suffering from chronic pain and had relied on painkillers for years due to various surgical procedures. At the time of reconciliation, Georgette had become a nurse and was a mother to twin boys. She made the decision to pursue her own musical aspirations, with her father taking her seriously and recognizing her songwriting talents.

George Jones not only supported Georgette but also recorded a duet with her, emphasizing the strong bond they had formed. The song, “You and Me and Time,” portrays the poignant story of two estranged family members who find each other again, transcending distance and separation. The lyrics reflect their journey: “I’m sorry it took so long, but better late than never, the love we thought we’d lost was not that hard to find, it only took the three of us, you and me and time.”

Georgette’s Musical Career and Pursuit of Recognition

Georgette’s book also sheds light on her desire for respect and recognition in her own music career. Despite the challenges she faced growing up in the shadow of her famous parents, Georgette is determined to carve out her own path in the music industry. She seeks not center stage but rather quiet respect and acknowledgement of her talents.

After enduring countless trials, Georgette’s resilience shines through, and readers are left hoping for her success as she continues to pursue her musical aspirations.

Conclusion

Georgette Jones’s book, The Three of Us: Growing Up with Tammy and George, offers a captivating and honest account of her unique upbringing as the daughter of two country music icons. It provides a glimpse into the complicated lives of her parents and the challenges she faced growing up in their shadow. With a blend of humor and frankness, Georgette navigates the complexities of love, need, and dysfunctional relationships. The book also highlights her reconciliation with her father and her own musical journey, as she strives for recognition and respect in the industry. This compelling read is a must for both longtime fans of Tammy and George and new fans of Georgette, who is determined to make her mark in the world of country music.