Introduction:
“He Stopped Loving Her Today” is a song made famous by American country music artist George Jones. It is widely considered one of the greatest country songs of all time. While George Strait and Alan Jackson have performed the song as a tribute, most notably at the 2013 CMA Awards following Jones’s death, it’s crucial to distinguish that they did not originate the recording.
The song was released in April 1980 as the lead single from Jones’s album I Am What I Am. This release was a significant moment in Jones’s career, as it marked his first solo number-one single in six years, revitalizing his career.
“He Stopped Loving Her Today” is a quintessential country ballad. The song’s narrative centers on a man who carries an undying love for a woman who left him. He keeps her letters and clings to the hope of her return. The poignant twist of the song reveals that he finally “stopped loving her” only when he dies. The lyrics, crafted by Bobby Braddock and Curly Putman, combined with Jones’s emotive delivery, create a powerful and enduring story of love and loss.
The song’s impact on country music cannot be overstated. It has garnered numerous accolades and achievements throughout the years. Some of these include:
- Chart Success: It reached number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart, revitalizing George Jones’s career.
- Critical Acclaim: It is consistently ranked among the greatest country songs ever written.
- Awards: The song won the Grammy Award for Best Male Country Vocal Performance in 1980.
- CMA Awards: It won the Country Music Association’s Song of the Year award in both 1980 and 1981.
- National Recording Registry: In 2008, it was preserved by the Library of Congress in the National Recording Registry, ensuring its legacy for future generations.
- Rolling Stone: The song was ranked No. 142 on Rolling Stone’s 2021 500 Greatest Songs of All Time ranking.
The song’s narrative and Jones’s performance have resonated with audiences for decades. Its themes of enduring love and loss are universal, contributing to its lasting appeal.
The performances by George Strait and Alan Jackson, particularly their tribute at the 2013 CMA Awards, served to honor George Jones and further cemented the song’s legacy. Alan Jackson also sang the song at George Jones’s funeral. These performances by Strait and Jackson highlight the song’s importance within the country music community and its impact on fellow artists.