About the song
“He Stopped Loving Her Today” is a profound and emotional song by the legendary country artist George Jones. Released in April 1980 as the lead single from his album *I Am What I Am*, this song has been celebrated as one of the greatest country songs ever recorded. Written by Bobby Braddock and Curly Putman, the song marks a significant moment in Jones’ career and in the country music genre.
The song’s narrative centers on a man who, despite being abandoned by his lover, remains devoted to her until his death. He holds onto memories of their time together, hoping she might return. The poignant twist in the story is that his love only ceases when he dies. The emotional depth of the lyrics and the powerful delivery by Jones make this a standout track, encapsulating themes of enduring love and loss.
Upon its release, “He Stopped Loving Her Today” achieved considerable success, becoming Jones’ first solo number one single in six years. The song’s impact was so profound that it re-entered the Hot Country Songs chart at number 21 following Jones’ death in 2013. It has sold over 500,000 copies in the United States and has been recognized as a seminal work in country music.
The recording of the song was not without its challenges. Initially, Jones disliked the song and felt it was too melancholic. Producer Billy Sherrill, however, was determined to make the song work. Despite Jones’ reservations, Sherrill’s vision and persistent efforts paid off, leading to a recording that would become a defining moment in Jones’ career. The production features lush orchestration, including strings and dramatic flourishes, which contributed to its emotional impact.
“He Stopped Loving Her Today” received widespread acclaim and won several prestigious awards, including Grammy Awards for Best Male Country Vocal Performance and multiple honors from the Academy of Country Music and the Country Music Association. The song was also ranked number 142 on Rolling Stone’s 2021 list of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time, underscoring its lasting significance in the music world.
The song’s legacy was further celebrated when Alan Jackson performed it at George Jones’ funeral in 2013, and George Strait and Jackson later paid tribute to the song at the 2013 CMA Awards. The emotional resonance and storytelling in “He Stopped Loving Her Today” continue to touch audiences, ensuring its place as a timeless piece of country music history.
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Lyrics
He said, “I’ll love you till I die”
She told him, “You’ll forget in time”
As the years went slowly by
She still preyed upon his mind
He kept her picture on his wall
Went half crazy now and then
But he still loved her through it all
Hoping she’d come back again
Kept some letters by his bed
Dated 1962
He had underlined in red
Every single, I love you
I went to see him just today
Oh, but I didn’t see no tears
All dressed up to go away
First time I’d seen him smile in years
He stopped loving her today
They placed a wreath upon his door
And soon they’ll carry him away
He stopped loving her today
You know, she came to see him one last time (ooh)
Ah, and we all wondered if she would (ooh)
And it kept runnin’ through my mind (ooh)
“This time he’s over her for good”
He stopped loving her today
They placed a wreath upon his door
And soon they’ll carry him away
He stopped loving her today