About the song
George Jones, the “Possum,” was a name synonymous with country music, and his voice, a raw, whiskey-soaked instrument that could break your heart with every note. Among his extensive catalog of hits, one song stands out as a masterpiece: “He Stopped Loving Her Today.” Released in 1980, this haunting ballad tells a tale of enduring love, loss, and the bittersweet irony of finding peace in death.
Written by Bobby Braddock and Curly Putman, the song paints a vivid picture of a man consumed by his love for a woman who has left him. He clings to the past, cherishing old letters and photographs, and refuses to let go of hope that she will return. The lyrics are both poignant and heartbreaking, capturing the raw emotion of a man who has lost everything.
The song’s impact is amplified by Jones’ powerful vocal performance. His voice, filled with both pain and resignation, conveys the depth of the character’s anguish. The melody, simple yet haunting, perfectly complements the lyrics, creating a timeless and unforgettable piece of music.
Despite Jones’ initial reluctance to record the song, it quickly became a massive hit, reaching number one on the country charts and solidifying his status as one of the greatest country singers of all time. The song’s success was a testament to its enduring power and Jones’ ability to connect with audiences on a deep emotional level.
“He Stopped Loving Her Today” has been praised by critics and fans alike for its lyrical beauty, haunting melody, and Jones’ unforgettable vocal performance. It has been named in several surveys as the greatest country song of all time, a testament to its enduring popularity and cultural significance.
The song’s legacy continues to live on, inspiring countless artists and fans long after Jones’ passing. It is a testament to the power of music to touch our hearts and remind us of the enduring nature of love, loss, and the human spirit.
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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