Introduction
Released in April 1993, “When Did You Stop Loving Me” was co-written by Donny Kees and Monty Holmes, and performed by country legend George Strait as the third single from the soundtrack album Pure Country The song dove deep into themes of heartbreak, regret, and the aching need for closure—qualities that resonated strongly with Strait’s audience. It climbed to No. 6 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart, solidifying its place among Strait’s notable hits .
Donny Kees, already a seasoned Nashville songwriter by the early ’90s, earned three BMI awards and penned several No. 1 country singles. In 1993, “When Did You Stop Loving Me” was even nominated for a Music City News Songwriter Award and became central to a nationwide Nissan ad campaign . These accolades underscore the song’s emotional resonance and widespread commercial impact.
Structurally, the track blends traditional country instrumentation—acoustic guitar, pedal steel, steady drums—with Strait’s smooth baritone, creating a poignant sonic backdrop that emphasizes the song’s raw emotional narrative. The lyricist’s perspective invites the listener into the narrator’s mind, pondering moments when love began to fade, with each verse peeling back another layer of memory and longing.
Over the decades, “When Did You Stop Loving Me” has been covered by other artists—most notably George Jones and John PayCheck—underlining its versatility and timeless appeal . The song remains a compelling entry in Strait’s discography, capturing the universal dilemma of seeking answers when affection slips away.
In summary, George Strait’s “When Did You Stop Loving Me” endures as a country classic: finely crafted songwriting, emotionally resonant delivery, and industry recognition all contribute to its standing as a memorable and heartfelt portrait of love lost.