About the song
Johnny Tillotson’s “It Keeps Right On A-Hurtin'” is a timeless pop classic that has captivated audiences for decades. Released in 1962, the song became a number-one hit on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, solidifying Tillotson’s status as one of the most popular singers of his generation.
The song’s intro immediately sets the stage with a haunting guitar riff and Tillotson’s distinctive, soulful vocals. The lyrics explore themes of heartbreak, longing, and the enduring pain of love lost. Tillotson’s delivery is both vulnerable and powerful, capturing the emotional intensity of the song’s subject matter.
One of the song’s most memorable aspects is its iconic chorus, in which Tillotson sings, “It keeps right on a-hurtin’, a-hurtin’, a-hurtin’.” The chorus’s repetitive refrain further reinforces the song’s central theme of enduring pain.
The song’s production is simple yet effective, with Tillotson’s vocals taking center stage. The arrangement allows his voice to shine, while the instrumental accompaniment provides a solid foundation for the song.
“It Keeps Right On A-Hurtin'” is a testament to the enduring power of pop music. Its timeless melody, evocative lyrics, and Tillotson’s soulful performance have made it a beloved classic that continues to resonate with audiences of all ages. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to Tillotson’s talent and his ability to create music that transcends time and genre.
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Lyrics
I cry myself to sleep each night
Wishing I could hold you tight
Life seems so empty since you went away
The pillow where you’d lay your head
Now holds my lonely tears instead
And it keeps right on a-hurtin’ since you’re gone
It keeps right on a-hurtin’ every minute of the day
Every hour you’re away I feel so lonely
And I can’t help it, I don’t think I can go on
And it keeps right on a-hurtin’ since you’re gone
They say a man should never cry
But when I see you passin’ by
My heart breaks down and cries a million tears
You broke my heart and set me free
But you forgot your memory
And it keeps right on a-hurtin’ since you’re gone
It keeps right on a-hurtin’ every minute of the day
Every hour you’re away I feel so lonely
And I can’t help it, I don’t think I can go on
And it keeps right on a-hurtin’ since you’re gone