'That’s When I’ll Stop Loving You' is a track from *NSYNC’s third studio album, 'No Strings Attached,' released in March 2000. The album, which was a pivotal moment in the boy band's career, marked their transition from teen pop to a more mature sound, coinciding with the group's immense popularity in the late '90s and early 2000s. This particular song showcases the band's vocal harmonies and is characterized by its blend of pop and R&B influences, which was a hallmark of their musical style. It was penned by the songwriting duo of Andreas Carlsson and Jörgen Elofsson, both of whom contributed significantly to the pop landscape of that era.
Lyrically, 'That’s When I’ll Stop Loving You' explores themes of unending love and emotional resilience. The song conveys a message of devotion, emphasizing that the narrator's love will persist regardless of the circumstances. Lines like "When the sky falls, when the river runs dry, that’s when I’ll stop loving you" encapsulate the sentiment that true love is unwavering and eternal. This reflective approach to love resonates with listeners, portraying a sense of longing and commitment that many can relate to, making it a poignant ballad within the album's repertoire.
Upon its release, the song received a mixed to positive reception from critics, who praised *NSYNC's vocal delivery and the emotional depth of the lyrics, although it wasn't as commercially successful as some of their other singles. Over the years, 'That’s When I’ll Stop Loving You' has gained a cult following among fans, often highlighted in discussions about the band's more mature musical offerings. The song contributes to the cultural legacy of *NSYNC, reminding listeners of the group's ability to blend catchy melodies with heartfelt themes, solidifying their status as pop icons of their time.