After George Jones passed away in April of 2013, his most famous peers came together to honor him at a special event that November.
Titled Playin’ Possum! The Final No Show Tribute To George Jones, the tribute concert was held at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville and featured performances from some of the biggest names in country music. Among the artists who took the stage were George Strait, Garth Brooks, Trisha Yearwood, Miranda Lambert, Brad Paisley, Blake Shelton, Emmylou Harris, Kid Rock, Eric Church, Charlie Daniels, Jamey Johnson, and Alan Jackson.
The night featured heartfelt renditions of Jones’ most beloved hits, from “Choices” and “Blues Man” to “The Grand Tour” and “Golden Ring.” But the most unforgettable moment came when Alan Jackson closed the show with what many call the greatest country song of all time — “He Stopped Loving Her Today.”
Jones held a special place in Jackson’s heart, not only as a musical hero but also as a close friend. After learning of Jones’ death, Jackson performed the song that very night at his own show in tribute.
During the tribute concert, Jackson paused before the final chorus of “He Stopped Loving Her Today” and addressed the crowd.
“I know before we leave here tonight that George would like nothin’ better than all these fans here and all the artists here tonight to sing along and help us with the chorus,” he said. “This is the greatest country song and the greatest country singer that ever was.”
He then invited George’s widow, Nancy Jones, to join him at the microphone. As she stepped on stage to sing her late husband’s most iconic song, it was a powerful, emotional tribute that likely left no dry eyes in the arena.
It was a moment that perfectly captured the impact George Jones had on country music, and the deep love and respect he inspired in both his fans and fellow artists.
