Ep 4. George Jones and Tammy Wynette (Part Two)

George Jones and Tammy Wynette were two of the biggest stars in country music during the 1970s. Despite their success, their tumultuous marriage was plagued by infidelity, jealousy, and addiction. In the second part of this two-part episode, Mike Judge continues to explore the couple's relationship and career, using interviews with family members, colleagues, and friends.

The episode begins with Jones and Wynette at the height of their fame, playing sold-out shows across the country and churning out hit albums. However, behind the scenes, their marriage was falling apart. Jones's drinking and drug use had become a major problem, leading to missed shows, car accidents, and even a stint in rehab. Wynette, meanwhile, was struggling with her own addiction to painkillers, as well as her husband's infidelity.

As the 1970s wore on, the couple's relationship became increasingly strained. Jones's behavior became more erratic, and he began spending long periods away from home. Wynette, meanwhile, started seeing other men, including her manager and her backup singer, causing even more tension between the two.

Despite their problems, Jones and Wynette continued to work together, releasing hit duets like "Golden Ring" and "Near You." They also had successful solo careers, with Jones scoring hits like "He Stopped Loving Her Today" and Wynette's "Stand by Your Man" becoming a country music anthem. However, their personal lives continued to unravel.

The episode features interviews with some of the couple's closest confidants, including their daughters, Georgette and Tamala, and their bandmates, Jerry Kennedy and Steve Pippin. They offer insight into the pair's struggles, recounting stories of Jones's wild antics on the road and Wynette's attempts to hold their family together.

Mike Judge also delves into the couple's music, highlighting some of their most iconic hits and exploring the ways in which their personal lives influenced their art. He examines how Jones's raw, emotional delivery helped make him one of the greatest country singers of all time, and how Wynette's powerful voice and feminist anthems paved the way for future female artists.

As the episode comes to a close, viewers are left with a bittersweet picture of Jones and Wynette's relationship. Despite their love for each other, their marriage was ultimately unable to withstand the pressures of fame, addiction, and infidelity. However, their music remains timeless and influential, a testament to their talent and perseverance in the face of adversity.

Overall, this episode of Mike Judge Presents: Tales from the Tour Bus offers a fascinating look at the lives and careers of George Jones and Tammy Wynette, two of the most legendary figures in country music history. Through interviews and archival footage, it offers a nuanced portrait of the couple's relationship, showcasing both their triumphs and their struggles. Fans of classic country music won't want to miss it.