The History Behind George Jones’ Signature Song “He Stopped Loving Her Today”
While George Jones’ “He Stopped Loving Her Today” may be one of the saddest country songs, it is also one of the best. In fact, many publications have named the ballad as the all-time greatest country song.
Jones was not a big fan of the song at first. But he came to appreciate it after it helped restore his career.
The song was a number one hit on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart. It also led Jones to win the Grammy Award for Best Male Country Vocal Performance in 1980.
Since “He Stopped Loving Her Today” is considered to be Jones’ signature piece, other artists like to honor him by offering up their own versions of the song.
One such artist is Craig Campbell. He performed a stirring rendition of the ballad during an appearance at the famed Ryman Auditorium in Nashville in 2018.
Craig Campbell Honored George Jones With An Outstanding Tribute Performance
Known for songs such as “Keep Them Kisses Comin'” and “Outskirts of Heaven,” Campbell has a great deal of respect for the artists who came before him.
That shows in his performance of “He Stopped Loving Her Today.”
Campbell shared a video of his performance on Facebook. He admitted to being “nervous” about singing the song that night.
His nerves were heightened because a few superstar audience members were watching. Garth Brooks, Trisha Yearwood, Bobby Braddock, and Kris Kristofferson were all in the crowd that night.
But Campbell had no need to worry, because the words flowed effortlessly once he started singing. He also played piano throughout the entire performance, and did so beautifully.
Campbell filled his voice with passion as he sang. That passion continued to build throughout the entire performance. We’re sure everyone in the crowd had goosebumps once they heard him sing the final note.
Brace yourself for a wave of emotions once you hear Campbell sing “He Stopped Loving Her Today” in the video below.
We think Craig Campbell would have made George Jones proud with his performance.