Introduction
On May 2, 2013, the Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville bore witness to a poignant tribute as Alan Jackson performed George Jones’ signature song, “He Stopped Loving Her Today,” during Jones’ funeral service. This performance served as a heartfelt homage to a country music legend whose influence spanned decades.
“He Stopped Loving Her Today,” penned by Bobby Braddock and Curly Putman, was recorded by George Jones in 1980. Initially, Jones was hesitant to record the song, finding it too morbid and depressing. However, producer Billy Sherrill believed in its potential and persuaded Jones to proceed. The song narrates the story of a man who continues to love his former partner until his death, marking the end of his enduring affection. Upon its release, the song revitalized Jones’ career, earning him a Grammy Award and being hailed as one of the greatest country songs of all time .
Alan Jackson, a longtime admirer and friend of George Jones, had a deep connection to the song. In 1986, Jackson performed a snippet of “He Stopped Loving Her Today” during an appearance on the television show “You Can Be a Star,” showcasing his reverence for Jones’ work . Their friendship blossomed over the years, with Jackson often citing Jones as a significant influence on his music.
During the funeral service, Jackson’s rendition of the song was met with a standing ovation from the 4,000 attendees, reflecting the profound impact of both the song and Jones’ legacy . Jackson concluded the performance by removing his white cowboy hat, looking skyward with tears in his eyes, and saying, “We love you, George” .
This performance not only honored the memory of George Jones but also underscored the enduring power of “He Stopped Loving Her Today” in the tapestry of country music history.
Video
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
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 nineteen sixty-two
He had underlined in red
Every single “I love you”
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
And he stopped loving her today
They placed a wreath upon his door
And soon they’ll carry him away
He stopped loving her today
Lord, she came to see him one last time
We all wondered if she would
It kept runnin’ through my mind
“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