Introduction
“The King Is Gone (So Are You)” is a country song that delves into themes of loss and remembrance, originally recorded by George Jones. Written by Roger D. Ferris, it was released in April 1989 as the second single from Jones’ album “One Woman Man.”
The narrative of the song centers around a man grappling with the departure of his lover. In his solitude, he opens a Jim Beam decanter shaped like Elvis Presley and repurposes a Flintstones jelly jar as a drinking glass. As the evening progresses, he imagines conversations with these inanimate companions—Elvis and Fred Flintstone—discussing topics ranging from Graceland to relationships. This blend of humor and melancholy underscores the depth of his loneliness and the human tendency to seek comfort in memories and familiar objects during times of heartache.
The song’s title underwent a change due to copyright considerations. Originally titled “Ya Ba Da Ba Do (So Are You),” a nod to Fred Flintstone’s catchphrase, it was altered at the request of Hanna-Barbera, the creators of “The Flintstones.” Consequently, Columbia Records reissued the single with the new title and advised disc jockeys to refer to it accordingly.
“The King Is Gone (So Are You)” resonated with audiences, charting on Hot Country Songs for 13 weeks and peaking at number 26. Its unique storytelling and emotive delivery contributed to its enduring popularity. The song became a staple in Jones’ live performances and was included in the 1994 box set “The Essential George Jones: The Spirit of Country.”
Over the years, the song has been covered by various artists, including Blake Shelton, who released his rendition in November 2018. Shelton’s version stays true to the original, reflecting his appreciation for classic country music and paying homage to Jones’ legacy.
As for The Highwaymen—a supergroup comprising Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson, and Kris Kristofferson—there is no verifiable evidence that they recorded or performed “The King Is Gone (So Are You).” While they are renowned for their collaborative works, such as the song “Highwayman,” this particular track does not appear in their collective discography.
In summary, “The King Is Gone (So Are You)” stands as a testament to George Jones’ storytelling prowess, artfully blending humor and sorrow to capture the complexities of human emotion in the face of loss.