Merle Haggard, a name synonymous with authentic country music, was a defining figure of the Bakersfield sound, a subgenre that championed a twangier, less polished sound than the Nashville pop prevalent in the 1960s and 70s. Born in 1937, Haggard lived a turbulent early life, including time spent in juvenile detention and San Quentin State Prison, experiences that deeply informed his songwriting and gave him a unique perspective on life, loss, and redemption. He rose to prominence in the mid-1960s with hits like “Sing Me Back Home” and “Okie from Muskogee,” earning him numerous CMA and ACM Awards throughout his career, cementing his status as a country music icon. He achieved multiple number one hits on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart, and was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1994.
One of his most enduring and heartbreaking ballads, “Today I Started Loving You Again,” released in 1972, explores the complex and often painful aftermath of a relationship’s end. While not written by Haggard himself (it was penned by Bonnie Owens and Merle’s then-guitarist, Fuzzy Owen), he imbued the song with his signature melancholic delivery, making it a signature tune. The lyrics delve into the realization that feelings haven’t faded, even after attempting to move on. It’s a raw and honest portrayal of the cyclical nature of heartbreak, the frustrating understanding that love, once ignited, can stubbornly refuse to extinguish.
“Today I Started Loving You Again” resonated deeply with audiences. Its simple, straightforward lyrics and Haggard’s emotionally charged vocals captured the universal experience of longing and regret. Listeners connected with the song’s vulnerability and honesty, finding solace in its depiction of heartbreak. The song continues to be a beloved classic, frequently covered by artists across genres, proving its timeless appeal and its enduring impact on country music. Its continued popularity underscores the power of Haggard’s interpretation and the song’s ability to tap into the shared human experience of love and loss.
