Introduction:
A Love Reignited: The Story of “Today I Started Loving You Again” by Merle Haggard & Tammy Wynette
“Today I Started Loving You Again” isn’t just a classic country duet by musical power couple Merle Haggard and Tammy Wynette – it’s a song that perfectly captures the cyclical nature of love, particularly after a heartbreak. But the song’s history goes deeper than just its relatable lyrics.
Composed by Haggard and his then-wife Bonnie Owens, “Today I Started Loving You Again” was first released in 1973 on Haggard’s album “Hag.” The song didn’t receive much initial attention, but that all changed when Haggard decided to re-record it as a duet with Tammy Wynette a few years later.
Haggard and Wynette were country music royalty, both known for their powerful vocals and songs that explored the complexities of love and loss. Their marriage, from 1978 to 1980, was as passionate and tumultuous as their music. They divorced in 1980, but continued to collaborate professionally, finding a way to channel their real-life experiences into their music.
“Today I Started Loving You Again” became a smash hit in 1982, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart. The song resonated with audiences because it spoke to the truth of lingering feelings and the unexpected return of love, even after a painful separation.
This duet became a signature song for both Haggard and Wynette. It perfectly showcased their individual styles while creating a powerful harmony that mirrored the song’s message of rekindled love. “Today I Started Loving You Again” cemented their place as country music legends and remains a beloved classic to this day.
So, prepare to be swept away by the unforgettable vocals of Merle Haggard and Tammy Wynette as they sing a song that celebrates the enduring power of love, even when it takes some unexpected turns.