The narrator reflects on the comfort his guitar provides him and anticipates a feeling of sadness coming on. They reminisce about the late George Jones, his struggles with alcoholism, the impact of his wife on his life, and the emotional depth of his music.

Meaning of "Sad One Comin' On (A Song for George Jones)" by Vince Gill

"Sad One Comin' On" pays tribute to the legendary George Jones and touches on themes of loss, heartbreak, and the solace found in music. The worn-out six-string guitar symbolizes the narrator's reliable companion in times of heartache. They draw parallels between their own feelings of impending sadness and the emotions evoked by Jones' songs, known for their heart-wrenching honesty and depth. References to Jones' personal struggles with alcoholism and the healing power of love through his wife portray the complexity of his life and music. The longing for slow, melancholic songs over fast-paced ones reflects a yearning for the emotional depth and vulnerability found in Jones' music, emphasizing the impact of his legacy on those who loved his work. The repeated phrase "I feel a sad one coming on" captures the inevitability of heartache and the healing power of music in times of emotional turmoil.