George Jones

Considered by many to be the greatest all-time country singer, George Jones was as famous for his music as his colorful life. Starting out as a rockabilly and honky-tonk singer, his association with producer Pappy Daily led to mainstream country success with hits like 1959's "White Lightning," 1961's "Tender Years" and 1962's "She Thinks I Still Care." Known fondly as "The Possum" and less so as "No-Show Jones," the hard-living but talented singer met his match in country music legend Tammy Wynette. His tumultuous, brief marriage and longer-lasting professional relationship with Wynette captivated America and was immortalized in a string of 1970s hit duets including "The Ceremony," "We're Gonna Hold On," "(We're Not) The Jet Set" and "Golden Ring" that brought out the best in both of their world-class voices. After surviving heartbreak, drug and alcohol addiction and a reputation for being an erratic and unstable performer, Jones silenced critics with his Grammy-winning masterpiece, 1981's "He Stopped Loving Her Today," considered by many to be the ultimate country classic. Blessed with a rich, emotion-filled voice and a passion for delivering solid songs, George Jones built an impressive legacy by honoring the roots of true country. His 2013 death was mourned by all country music fans.