About the song
Keith Whitley, a rising star in the country music scene of the 1980s, delivered a poignant and heartbreaking ballad with “Don’t Close Your Eyes.” Released in 1988, the song became a massive hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and solidifying Whitley’s status as one of the genre’s most promising talents.
The song’s lyrics tell the story of a man who is coming to terms with the loss of his loved one. Whitley’s emotive vocals convey a sense of deep sorrow and longing, as he pleads with his partner not to close her eyes and leave him behind. The song’s simple yet powerful melody provides a haunting backdrop for Whitley’s heartfelt performance.
One of the most striking aspects of “Don’t Close Your Eyes” is its emotional intensity. Whitley’s raw and vulnerable delivery captures the pain and anguish of the song’s subject matter, drawing listeners into the story. The song’s bridge, in which Whitley sings about his fear of being alone, is particularly poignant and moving.
“Don’t Close Your Eyes” was a critical and commercial success, earning Whitley numerous awards and accolades. The song’s enduring popularity can be attributed to its timeless appeal and Whitley’s exceptional vocal performance. Tragically, Whitley passed away in 1989 at the young age of 33, cutting short a promising career. However, his legacy lives on through his music, and “Don’t Close Your Eyes” remains one of his most beloved and enduring songs.
Video
Lyrics
I know you loved him
A long time ago
Even now in my arms
You still want him, I know
But darling this time
Let your memories die
When you hold me tonight
Don’t close your eyes
Don’t close your eyes
Let it be me
Don’t pretend it’s him
In some fantasy
Darling, just once let yesterday go
And you’ll find more love
Than you’ve ever known
Just hold me tight
When you love me tonight
And don’t close your eyes
Maybe I’ve been a fool
Holding on all this time
Lyin’ here in your arms
Knowing he’s in your mind
But I keep hoping some day
That you’ll see the light
Let it be me tonight
Don’t close your eyes
Don’t close your eyes
Let it be me
Don’t pretend it’s him
In some fantasy
Darling, just once let yesterday go
And you’ll find more love
Than you’ve ever known
Just hold me tight
When you love me tonight
And don’t close your eyes
Don’t close your eyes
Let it be me
Don’t pretend it’s him
In some fantasy
Darling, just once let yesterday go
You’ll find more love
Than you’ve ever known
Just hold me tight
When you love me tonight
And don’t close your eyes
Just hold me tight
When you love me tonight
And don’t close your eyes