Merle Haggard, a towering figure in country music, was an outlaw, an icon, and a voice for the common man. Born in 1937, Haggard’s life story is as compelling as his music, marked by hardship, rebellion, and eventual redemption. He spent time in San Quentin prison before channeling his experiences into a prolific songwriting career that earned him countless awards, including three Grammy Awards, nineteen Academy of Country Music Awards, and induction into both the Country Music Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame. His music frequently topped the Billboard country charts, solidifying his status as a cornerstone of the genre.
Among his vast catalog of hits, “Today I Started Loving You Again,” released in 1968 and re-recorded in 1972, stands out as a particularly poignant expression of regret and longing. Though not written by Haggard himself (Bonnie Owens and Merle Haggard’s then-wife, Dottie West, are credited), he made the song his own. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a man belatedly realizing the depth of his love for someone he has likely wronged. It’s a heartbreaking confession of emotional awakening, where the protagonist recognizes the immense value of what he almost lost, and possibly did.
The song resonated deeply with audiences for its raw honesty and relatable theme of second chances and the pain of missed opportunities. Its appeal lies in its ability to articulate the universal feeling of regret and the slow realization of love’s true value. The song’s simple yet powerful melody, combined with Haggard’s soulful delivery, has made it a enduring classic, frequently covered by other artists and consistently praised for its emotional depth and authenticity. It’s a testament to Haggard’s genius in capturing the complexities of the human heart and translating them into timeless music.
