Introduction
“He Stopped Loving Her Today,” performed by George Jones, is widely regarded as one of the greatest country songs of all time. Released in 1980, this poignant ballad tells the story of a man whose enduring love for a woman ceases only upon his death. The song’s profound narrative and Jones’s emotive delivery have cemented its place in country music history.
The song was penned by esteemed songwriters Bobby Braddock and Curly Putman, who had previously collaborated on hits like Tammy Wynette’s “D-I-V-O-R-C-E.” In crafting “He Stopped Loving Her Today,” Braddock aimed to depict a love so steadfast that only death could end it. Initially envisioning the protagonist as a hopeless romantic, Braddock and Putman revised the song multiple times to perfect its narrative structure. In one version, the man’s death is revealed only at the song’s conclusion, adding to its emotional impact.
At the time the song was presented to George Jones by his producer, Billy Sherrill, in 1978, Jones was experiencing personal and professional challenges. Following a high-profile divorce from fellow country star Tammy Wynette in 1975, Jones’s career had been marred by substance abuse and erratic behavior, leading to a decline in his musical output. Sherrill believed that “He Stopped Loving Her Today” could revitalize Jones’s career, but Jones was initially reluctant to record it, considering the song too morose and doubting its commercial potential.
Recording the song proved challenging. Jones struggled with the melody, often confusing it with Kris Kristofferson’s “Help Me Make It Through the Night.” His personal issues further complicated the process, leading to fragmented recording sessions that Sherrill had to piece together. Despite these hurdles, the final product showcased Jones’s deep emotional connection to the material, resulting in a performance that resonated with audiences.
Upon its release, “He Stopped Loving Her Today” achieved monumental success. It became Jones’s first number-one hit in six years, remaining at the top of the charts for 18 weeks. The song garnered numerous accolades, including the Grammy Award for Best Male Country Vocal Performance in 1980 and the Country Music Association’s Song of the Year in both 1980 and 1981. Its success not only revitalized Jones’s career but also reaffirmed his status as a country music legend.
Over the years, “He Stopped Loving Her Today” has continued to receive critical acclaim. In 2009, it was selected by the Library of Congress for preservation in the National Recording Registry, recognizing its cultural, historical, and aesthetic significance. The song’s enduring legacy lies in its universal theme of undying love and the masterful collaboration between its songwriters, producer, and vocalist. It stands as a testament to the power of storytelling in music and remains a touchstone in the country genre.
Video