Introduction:
Today I Started Loving You Again, released in 1981, is a country music ballad that cemented the place of American singer-songwriter Gene Watson as a major force in the genre.
The song’s journey began with songwriters Claude Gray and Buddy Mize crafting the lyrics and melody. Country music veteran Billy Sherrill, known for his work with artists like Tammy Wynette and George Jones, stepped in to produce the track for MCA Records.
Today I Started Loving You Again tells the story of a rekindled love. The narrator reflects on a past relationship, filled with memories of both joy and heartbreak. He acknowledges missteps and regrets, but the song ultimately focuses on a renewed sense of love and a desire for reconciliation. Watson’s smooth baritone vocals deliver the lyrics with a sincerity that resonates with listeners. The gentle melody and orchestration create a melancholic yet hopeful atmosphere, perfectly capturing the emotional journey of the song.
Upon release, Today I Started Loving You Again became a major hit for Gene Watson. The song reached number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart, a significant achievement for any artist. But the song’s appeal extended beyond the country genre. It managed to crossover to the pop charts as well, peaking at number 22 on the Billboard Hot 100. This dual-chart success solidified Watson’s status as a versatile artist who could resonate with a wide audience.
Today I Started Loving You Again is not only a commercial success but also a critical darling. The song is widely considered a classic of the country music genre. Its enduring popularity is evidenced by the numerous covers recorded by other artists over the years. From established stars like Conway Twitty to up-and-coming singers, Today I Started Loving You Again has been reinterpreted and reintroduced to new generations of listeners.
The song’s legacy extends beyond the music industry. Today I Started Loving You Again has been featured in several films and television shows, further solidifying its place in popular culture. It continues to be a favorite at country music concerts, a testament to its ability to connect with audiences on an emotional level.
In conclusion, Today I Started Loving You Again is more than just a song; it’s a country music cornerstone. Gene Watson’s heartfelt performance, combined with Claude Gray and Buddy Mize’s poignant lyrics, created a timeless ballad that resonates with themes of love, loss, and hope. The song’s critical and commercial success, along with its lasting influence on the genre, solidify Today I Started Loving You Again as a true country classic.
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Lyrics:
Well today I started loving you againAnd I’m right back where I’ve really always beenI got over you just long enough to let my heartaches mendAnd then today I started loving you againNow what a fool I was to think I could get byWith only these few million tears I’ve criedI should have known the worst was yet to comeAnd that crying time for me had just begunWell today I started loving you againAnd I’m right back where I’ve really always beenI got over you just long enough to let my heartaches mendAnd then today I started loving you againAnd then today I started loving you again