About the song
“The Race Is On” is a notable song by George Jones, an icon in country music. Released in October 1964, this song quickly became one of Jones’s most beloved tracks. It was written by Don Rollins and featured on Jones’s album of the same name, “The Race Is On.” The song is a perfect blend of heartache and uptempo rhythm, showcasing Jones’s ability to convey deep emotion with a lively beat.
George Jones’s career was already well-established by the time “The Race Is On” hit the airwaves. Known for his powerful voice and emotive delivery, Jones brought a unique energy to this song, which explores the theme of romantic rivalry and the ensuing heartbreak. The metaphor of a horse race to describe the ups and downs of love is both clever and poignant, making the song relatable to many listeners.
The song’s success was immediate and widespread. “The Race Is On” reached number three on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart, marking another significant achievement in Jones’s career. Its popularity was not confined to country music fans alone; it also crossed over to the Billboard Hot 100, where it peaked at number 96. This crossover appeal demonstrated Jones’s broad influence and the universal themes of his music.
The album “The Race Is On,” released by United Artists Records, further cemented George Jones’s status as a leading figure in country music. The album itself featured a mix of new songs and previous hits, offering a comprehensive look at Jones’s talent and versatility. Alongside the title track, songs like “She Once Lived Here” and “Open Pit Mine” contributed to the album’s overall success and critical acclaim.
“The Race Is On” stands out not just for its catchy tune and relatable lyrics, but also for its cultural impact. It has been covered by numerous artists across different genres, attesting to its enduring appeal. The song’s lively tempo and poignant storytelling make it a favorite in Jones’s extensive catalog, and it continues to be a staple on classic country music stations.
For an older and educated audience, “The Race Is On” is a reminder of the golden era of country music, when artists like George Jones were at the forefront of the genre. It exemplifies the storytelling tradition of country music, blending humor, heartache, and a catchy melody into a timeless piece. George Jones’s contribution to country music is immeasurable, and “The Race Is On” remains a shining example of his enduring legacy and his ability to connect with audiences through song.
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Lyrics
I feel tears wellin’ up cold, deep inside
Like my heart’s sprung a big break
And a stab of loneliness, sharp and painful
That I may never shake
You might say that I was taking it hard
Since you wrote me off with a call
But don’t you wager that I’ll hide in sorrow
When I may lay right down and bawl
Now the race is on
And here comes pride in the backstretch
Heartache’s goin’ to the inside
My tears are holdin’ back
They’re tryin’ not to fall
My heart’s out of the runnin’
True love’s scratched for another’s sake
The race is on and it looks like heartache
And the winner loses all
One day I ventured in love
Never once suspectin’ what the final result would be
And how I lived in fear of waking up each morning
Finding that you’re gone from me
There’s ache and pain in my heart
For today was the one that I hated to face
Somebody new came up to win her
And I came out in second place
Now the race is on
And here comes pride in the backstretch
Heartache’s goin’ to the inside
My tears are holdin’ back
They’re tryin’ not to fall
My heart’s out of the runnin’
True love’s scratched for another’s sake
The race is on and it looks like heartache
And the winner loses all
Now the race is on
And here comes pride in the backstretch
Heartache’s goin’ to the side
My tears are holdin’ back
They’re tryin’ not to fall
My heart’s out of the runnin’
True love’s scratched for another’s sake
The race is on and it looks like heartache
And the winner loses all