Introduction:
Country music thrives on storytelling, weaving tales of love, loss, and the resilience of the human spirit. Few songs capture this essence quite like “Today I Started Loving You Again,” a poignant duet performed by legendary country singers Merle Haggard and Marty Robbins. Released in 1969, the song became an instant classic, showcasing the distinct vocal styles of Haggard and Robbins while exploring the complexities of rekindled love.
Haggard, known for his Bakersfield sound characterized by a rough-edged Bakersfield sound and poignant lyrics, had already established himself as a country music powerhouse by the late 1960s. Robbins, a versatile artist who blended country with elements of rockabilly and folk, was a household name with hits like “El Paso” and “A White Sport Coat and a Pink Carnation.” Their collaboration on “Today I Started Loving You Again” was a meeting of titans, bringing together two of country music’s most respected voices.
While the exact recording date and producer remain unconfirmed, “Today I Started Loving You Again” is believed to have been recorded at Haggard’s frequent haunt, Wally Byam’s Recording Studio in Bakersfield, California. Byam, a longtime collaborator with Haggard, likely produced the session, though this detail is not definitively credited.
The song itself is a beautiful ballad about the cyclical nature of love. The narrator, played by Haggard’s gruff vocals, reflects on a past love and the heartache it caused. He admits to trying to move on, but finds his affections returning unexpectedly, “Well, I got over you just long enough to let my heartache mend / Then today I started loving you again.” Robbins’ smooth baritone acts as a harmonizing voice, adding a layer of melancholic grace to the narrative.
“Today I Started Loving You Again” was a critical and commercial success. It reached number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart in 1969, solidifying its place in country music history. The song’s enduring legacy lies in its relatable portrayal of love’s enduring power. It speaks to the universality of emotional relapse, the lingering pull of past relationships, and the unexpected ways love can resurface. Moreover, the duet format allows Haggard and Robbins to represent two sides of the same coin: the gruff exterior masking a vulnerable heart (Haggard) and the smoother, more sentimental expression of love (Robbins). Their combined vocals create a tapestry of emotions that resonates deeply with listeners.
An analysis of “Today I Started Loving You Again” wouldn’t be complete without mentioning the song’s impact on country music. The duet helped solidify Haggard’s reputation as a leading voice in country music, showcasing his storytelling abilities and distinctive vocals. For Robbins, the song became a late-career hit, further solidifying his place as a country music icon. More importantly, “Today I Started Loving You Again” helped popularize the country duet format, paving the way for future collaborations between other esteemed artists.
In conclusion, “Today I Started Loving You Again” by Merle Haggard and Marty Robbins is more than just a country song. It’s a timeless ballad that explores the complexities of love, loss, and renewal. The song’s success is a testament to the power of duets and the combined talents of Haggard and Robbins. It continues to be a fan favorite and an important piece of country music history.