About the song
“She Thinks I Still Care” is a timeless country classic that has left an indelible mark on the genre, largely thanks to George Jones’ unforgettable rendition. Written by Dickey Lee and Steve Duffy, the song was first introduced to Jones by Jack Clement, co-owner of Gulf Coast Studio in Beaumont. Despite the song’s eventual success, Jones was initially hesitant to record it, famously dismissing it as having “too many damn ‘just becauses’ in it.” This reluctance is a curious footnote in the song’s history, given how integral it would become to Jones’ career and country music as a whole.
The story behind the recording of “She Thinks I Still Care” adds a layer of charm to its legacy. Clement and his business partner Bill Hall were so eager for Jones to record the song that they resorted to creative persuasion. At one point, they even offered to give Jones a tape recorder in exchange for his agreement to record the track. Despite his initial lack of enthusiasm, Jones eventually gave in, and what followed was nothing short of magic. When Jones finally recorded the song in 1962, it marked his first single release on United Artists after leaving Mercury, and it became an instant hit, spending six weeks at number one on the Billboard Country chart and remaining on the chart for an impressive twenty-three weeks.
Jones’ performance of “She Thinks I Still Care” transformed the song from a simple tune into a deeply emotional narrative that resonated with audiences across the country. The song’s lyrics, which tell the story of a man whose ex-lover mistakenly believes he still pines for her, are delivered with a mix of melancholy and resignation that only Jones could master. This emotional depth, combined with the song’s strong country melody, made it an instant classic and cemented Jones’ status as a leading figure in country music.
The impact of “She Thinks I Still Care” extended far beyond its initial release. The song became one of Jones’ most requested hits and was often referred to as a “career record”—a song that defines an artist’s identity and remains a cornerstone of their legacy. Its influence is evident in the numerous artists who have covered the song over the years, including Connie Francis, Anne Murray, Elvis Presley, and Patty Loveless, each bringing their unique style to the timeless lyrics.
In recognition of its enduring significance, George Jones’ version of “She Thinks I Still Care” was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1999, solidifying its place in the annals of country music history. The song remains a poignant reminder of Jones’ unparalleled ability to convey deep emotion through his music, and it continues to be a beloved track for fans of classic country.
Video
Lyrics
She thinks I still care
Just because I asked a friend about her
Just because I spoke her name somewhere
Just because I rang her number by mistake today
She thinks I still care
Just because I haunt the same old places
Where the memory of her lingers everywhere
Just because I’m not the happy guy I used to be
She thinks I still care
But if she’s happy thinking I still need her
Then let that silly notion bring her cheer
But how could she ever be so foolish
Oh were would she get such an idea
Just because I asked a friend about her
Just because I spoke her name somewhere
Just because I saw her then went all to pieces
She thinks I still care
She thinks I still care