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Cocaine & Rhinestones | Tyler Mahan Coe
Cocaine & Rhinestones | Tyler Mahan Coe
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Cocaine & Rhinestones: A History of George Jones and Tammy Wynette
Extended Synopsis
By the early 1960s, nearly everybody paying attention to country music agreed that George Jones was the greatest country singer of all time. After cementing his status as a living legend with hits like "White Lightning" and "She Thinks I Still Care," Jones realized he suffered from extreme stage fright. He medicated his anxiety with staggering amounts of alcohol, leading to infamous no-shows and drunken performances, yet his unmatched vocal talent ensured his fans always forgave him.
Enter Tammy Wynette, a fan who idolized Jones before traveling to Nashville to secure her own record deal. As she ascended to global fame with the pop crossover success of "Stand by Your Man," she married her hero. Together, they were sold to the public as The King and Queen of Country Music. Brought to life with illustrations by Wayne White, Cocaine & Rhinestones peers behind the album covers to reveal the turbulent, unvarnished truth of this iconic power couple, reframing their intertwined careers within modern history.
About the Author & Illustrator
Tyler Mahan Coe is the creator and host of the critically acclaimed country music history podcast, Cocaine & Rhinestones. Known for his exhaustive research and captivating storytelling, Coe brings the legends and myths of country music to print. The book is heavily illustrated by singular artist Wayne White, adding a vibrant visual dimension to this epic American saga.
Reader Targeting
- Fans of country music history and classic honky-tonk legends.
- Listeners of the Cocaine & Rhinestones podcast seeking the definitive print companion.
- Readers who enjoy deeply researched, character-driven biographies of flawed musical geniuses.
Bibliographic & Physical Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Title | Cocaine & Rhinestones |
| Subtitle | A History of George Jones and Tammy Wynette |
| Author | Tyler Mahan Coe |
| Illustrator | Wayne White |
| ISBN-13 | 9781668015186 |
| ISBN-10 | 1668015188 |
| Publisher | Atria Books |
| Publication Date | June 9, 2026 |
| Edition | First Edition |
| Language | English |
| Condition | Pre-Owned / Very Good |
| Format | Hardcover (Hardbound with Dust Jacket) |
| Page Count | 464 |
| BISAC Categories | MUSIC / Genres & Styles / Country & Bluegrass; MUSIC / History & Criticism |
| BIC/Thema Classifications | Music (AV) |
| Dimensions | 9.0 x 6.0 x 1.4 inches (229 x 152 x 36 mm) |
| Weight | 22.0 oz |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this book connected to the podcast of the same name?
Yes, this book brings Tyler Mahan Coe's critically acclaimed country music history podcast, Cocaine & Rhinestones, to print format.
Does the book focus only on George Jones and Tammy Wynette?
While it deeply investigates the history, marriage, and individual careers of George Jones and Tammy Wynette, it also reframes their turbulent saga within the broader context of country music and modern history.
Are there pictures or illustrations included?
Yes, the book is extensively illustrated throughout by the singular artist Wayne White.
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