You Can't Do Wrong and Get By (Ricky Skaggs)
George Jones · Friends in High Places [1990]
(George)
I remember my grandfather's counsel
As he layed the leather to my hide
He said there's just one rule to life that always will apply
You can't do wrong and get by.
(Ricky)
Now, lessons tend to fade as we grow older
And I found myself in jail at twenty-five
Had to sit there by my lawyer, the old judge looked me in the eye
Said, you can't do wrong and get by.
(Both)
You can't do wrong and get by for very long
Do wrong and all your troubles multiply
(George)
You may not face them here but you'll face the man on high
(Both)
You can't do wrong and get by.
--- Instrumental ---
(George)
Now once I had a wife and lovin' children
But I gave into the pleasures of the night
Used my grand dads very words to say her last goodbye
You can't do wrong and get by.
(Both)
You can't do wrong and get by for very long
Do wrong and all your troubles multiply
Ricky)
Oh, you may not face them here but you'll sure face the man on high
(Both)
You can't do wrong and get by.
No, no, you can't do wrong and get by
You can't do wrong and get by.
Oh no, you can't do wrong and get by...
You Can't Do Wrong and Get By (Ricky Skaggs)
George Jones delivers a poignant vocal performance on this track, recorded for his 1990 album Friends in High Places. Produced by Ricky Skaggs, the recording captures Jones during a period where he was collaborating with younger contemporaries to revitalize his sound. The song stands as a testament to the legendary singer's enduring ability to convey deep emotion and narrative clarity within the country genre. While the album shares its name with his signature hit, this track highlights the nuanced storytelling that defined his extensive discography. The production emphasizes Jones's signature phrasing, allowing the emotional weight of the composition to resonate without relying on flashy arrangements. This recording remains a significant song in his late-career catalog, showcasing the synergy between the veteran vocalist and the producer known for his own traditionalist approach.