Author: Essiecountry

Essie Country Reflections
I’m Gonna Love You Anyway
February 17, 2026

I’m Gonna Love You Anyway
by Trace Adkins
Released July 2000

Review by Gene Johns 

Trace Adkins, the 1997 Academy of Country Music New Male Vocalist winner, released this week’s Essie Country Reflection subject in July 2000. I didn’t remember hearing this song before, but I recently came across a sample of it while watching a YouTube Shorts video playlist. 
 
I heard enough of the song in the YouTube Shorts video playlist to want to hear the complete song. So I went to Spotify and searched for the song. I found it, and after listening to it, I knew I had this week’s Essie Country Reflection’s song. 
 
I’ve always been a fan of Trace Adkins. My favorite Trace Adkins songs are “This Ain’t No Thinking Thing,” “Just Fishin’,” and “Every Light in the House.” I must say, “I’m Gonna Love You Anyway” is now my favorite Trace Adkins song. It’s one of those songs that keeps playing in your mind long after it’s over. 
 
I was surprised it only reached #36 on the US Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. The year was 2000, and the traditional songs and sound of country music were already being pushed aside by slicker, pop-influenced artists who helped usher in the pop-hip-hop fake country of today. No doubt, the #36 peak of this song was a warning of things to come. 
 
Essie Country has made “I’m Gonna Love You Anyway” this week’s “number one” choice for the Essie Country Reflection’s song. It’s my hope you enjoy it as much as I do, but if you don’t, I’m gonna love it anyway. 

                 I’m Gonna Love You Anyway
                           by Trace Adkins
https://youtu.be/UFiL0ZX0b3o?si=weybdDPAHpvW_zdT
                 

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