George Jones was an American country music singer. He was known for his distinctive baritone voice and his outlaw country style. Jones was one of the most popular and successful country music artists of all time, with over 40 million records sold worldwide.
“He Stopped Loving Her Today” is one of Jones’ most famous songs. It was written by Bobby Braddock and Curly Putman and released in 1980. The song is a country ballad about a man who has never stopped loving his deceased wife. Jones’ performance is full of emotion, and the song’s lyrics are a powerful reminder of the power of love.
“He Stopped Loving Her Today” was a commercial success, reaching number one on the Billboard country music charts. The song was also a critical success, winning the Grammy Award for Best Country Vocal Performance by a Male in 1981. It has been covered by many other artists, including Willie Nelson, Alan Jackson, and Brad Paisley.
“He Stopped Loving Her Today” is a classic country song that continues to be enjoyed by fans around the world. It is a testament to Jones’ talent as a singer and songwriter, and it is a song that will continue to be sung for many years to come.
Background and recording
“He Stopped Loving Her Today” was written by Bobby Braddock and Curly Putman in 1979. Braddock was inspired to write the song after attending the funeral of a friend. He was struck by the grief of the friend’s widow, and he wanted to write a song that would express the pain of losing a loved one.
Putman helped Braddock finish the song, and they pitched it to George Jones. Jones was initially reluctant to record the song, as he thought it was too depressing. However, he was eventually convinced to record it, and it became one of his biggest hits.
Jones recorded “He Stopped Loving Her Today” in 1980. The recording session was produced by Billy Sherrill. The song was released as the lead single from Jones’ album I Am What I Am in April 1980.
Personnel
- George Jones – vocals
- Billy Sherrill – guitar
- Ray Edenton – guitar
- Jerry Reed – guitar
- Pete Wade – guitar
- Buddy Harman – drums
- Floyd Cramer – piano
- Bob Moore – bass
Release and commercial success
“He Stopped Loving Her Today” was released as the lead single from Jones’ album I Am What I Am in April 1980. The song was a commercial success, reaching number one on the Billboard country music charts. The song was also a critical success, winning the Grammy Award for Best Country Vocal Performance by a Male in 1981.
Legacy
“He Stopped Loving Her Today” is a classic country song that has been covered by many other artists, including Willie Nelson, Alan Jackson, and Brad Paisley. The song was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1999. It is considered one of George Jones’ most enduring songs.
The song’s lyrics are simple but powerful. They tell the story of a man who has never stopped loving his deceased wife. The song’s message is one of love, loss, and the power of memory.
“He Stopped Loving Her Today” is a timeless song that continues to resonate with listeners of all ages. It is a song about love, loss, and the power of music.