About the Song

Merle Haggard, one of the most influential figures in American country music, left behind a legacy that spanned nearly eight decades (1937–2016). Over the course of his career, he earned some of the industry’s highest honors, including recognition from the Academy of Country Music, the Country Music Association, and the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences. Among his many accolades were the prestigious Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award and the BMI Icon Award, celebrating his enduring contributions to music.

With an incredible run of success, Haggard recorded 38 singles that climbed to the number one spot on the country charts. His influence was so profound that he was inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame, the Country Music Hall of Fame, and the Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame. Sadly, he passed away on April 6, 2016—on his 79th birthday—due to complications from pneumonia. His passing marked the end of an era, but his music continues to live on for generations to come.

Among his many classics is the heartfelt ballad “Today I Started Loving You Again.” Written by Merle Haggard and Bonnie Owens, the song was first recorded in the late 1960s and released as a single from his album The Legend of Bonnie & Clyde. Produced by Ken Nelson and released under Capitol Records, the album reached number 6 on the Billboard Country Albums chart, further solidifying Haggard’s place in country music history.

The song has since become one of Haggard’s most beloved works, covered by an array of artists including Dolly Parton, Kenny Rogers, and Martina McBride. Its timeless message of rekindled love has resonated deeply with audiences across decades.

Lyrically, “Today I Started Loving You Again” is a simple yet powerful reflection on rediscovered feelings. The narrator speaks of realizing, almost unexpectedly, that his love has returned with full force. Though often associated with love at first sight or the rekindling of a relationship, the beauty of the song lies in its universality—listeners can interpret it as a reminder that love can be rediscovered in even the most ordinary moments of life.

Written in just a single day, the song captures raw sincerity and emotional depth. It is a ballad that continues to stand the test of time, reminding us of both the fragility and strength of love. Whether through Haggard’s original version or the countless covers it inspired, the song remains a cornerstone of classic country storytelling.

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