George Strait and Alan Jackson Honored George Jones with a Beautiful Rendition of ‘He Stopped Loving Her Today’

On April 26, 2013, we said goodbye to the Possum, George Jones, whose legendary voice captured heartbreak so powerfully that it inspired an entire generation of country singers and songwriters.

It was only fitting that the 2013 Country Music Association Awards honored the legend, as country icons Alan Jackson and George Strait united to perform Jones’ most beloved and timeless hit, “He Stopped Loving Her Today.”

Host Brad Paisley introduced Alan Jackson and George Strait, both wearing their signature cowboy hats, calling George Jones “the greatest country singer of all time” and expressing pride in having called him a friend.

Strait, the King of Country, began strumming his guitar with Jackson at his side. The two traded lines and harmonized, their powerful voices blending beautifully. Behind them, images of Jones throughout his legendary career appeared on the screen, paying tribute to his remarkable life.

Strait and Jackson’s performance drew some of the loudest cheers of the night amid a series of star-studded acts. It was a heartfelt homage to a man beloved and respected by country music fans everywhere.

The Wistful Track That Tugged at Millions of Hearts

Released in 1980 as the lead single from George Jones’ album *I Am What I Am*, “He Stopped Loving Her Today” is celebrated as one of country music’s greatest songs. The track topped Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart and earned Jones multiple accolades, including a Grammy for Best Male Country Vocal Performance.

A week after Jones’ passing, the song re-entered Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart, climbing to No. 21.

Alan Jackson and George Strait were the perfect artists to honor Jones’ life and musical legacy with this iconic ballad. You can watch their heartfelt performance of “He Stopped Loving Her Today” in the video below.