Introduction
“He Stopped Loving Her Today” is one of the most iconic songs in country music history and a career-defining moment for George Jones. Written by Bobby Braddock and Curly Putman, the song was released in 1980 as the lead single from Jones’s album I Am What I Am. The song tells a poignant story of a man who never stops loving his ex, even after his death, symbolized by the line, “He stopped loving her today.”
The recording process for the song was fraught with challenges. George Jones, who was struggling with personal issues, including alcoholism, initially disliked the song, calling it too morbid and doubting its potential for success. He even found it difficult to record, frequently forgetting the melody and needing several takes to get it right. Despite these hurdles, Jones’s producer, Billy Sherrill, believed in the song and worked meticulously to piece together the best parts of the various takes (Wide Open Country) (American Songwriter).
When the song was finally released, it became an instant classic. It reached number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and won multiple awards, including two CMA Awards for Song of the Year and a Grammy Award for Best Male Country Vocal Performance. The emotional depth of the song, combined with Jones’s soulful delivery, resonated deeply with audiences, solidifying its place as one of the greatest country songs of all time (Wide Open Country).
“He Stopped Loving Her Today” not only revived George Jones’s career but also cemented his legacy as one of country music’s greatest vocalists. The song’s success and its continued impact on listeners today are a testament to the power of country music to convey raw, universal emotions through storytelling. It remains a staple in the genre, often cited as the best country song ever recorded.