About the song
“I’d Love to Lay You Down” stands as a distinctive gem in Conway Twitty’s illustrious career, showcasing his unparalleled ability to blend soulful melodies with evocative storytelling. Penned by Johnny MacRae and released in January 1980 as the lead single from Twitty’s album “Heart & Soul,” this song quickly ascended to the top of the country charts, marking Twitty’s impressive 24th number one hit.
What sets “I’d Love to Lay You Down” apart is not just its chart success but its unique musical arrangement. Unlike conventional songs that typically modulate upwards in key changes, Twitty’s rendition takes a daring approach by progressively lowering in key as the song unfolds. This unconventional choice adds a distinctive charm, complementing Twitty’s smooth vocals and enhancing the song’s sensual and intimate lyrics.
The lyrics themselves are a testament to Twitty’s ability to evoke passion and romance through song. With heartfelt sincerity, Twitty croons about a desire to express his love in the most tender and intimate manner, promising to cherish and adore his beloved. Each verse resonates with a sense of longing and devotion, painted against a backdrop of lush instrumentation that heightens the song’s emotional depth.
Beyond its initial success, “I’d Love to Lay You Down” has left an indelible mark on country music, inspiring artists across generations. In 2002, Daryle Singletary paid homage to Twitty’s classic with a remake that resonated with audiences anew, showcasing the enduring appeal of Twitty’s original composition.
Notably, contemporary artist Chris Young referenced “I’d Love to Lay You Down” in his own single “I Can Take It from There,” underscoring the song’s lasting influence and relevance in the country music landscape. Twitty’s ability to capture the nuances of love and desire in “I’d Love to Lay You Down” solidifies its place as not just a hit but a timeless testament to the power of heartfelt ballads in country music history.
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Lyrics
There’s a lot of ways of sayin’ what I want to say to you
There’s songs and poems and promises and dreams that might come true
But I won’t talk of starry skies or moonlight on the ground
I’ll come right out and tell you I’d just love to lay you down
Lay ya down and softly whisper pretty love words in your ear
Lay ya down and tell you all the things a woman loves to hear
I’ll let you know how much it means just havin’ you around
Oh darlin’, how I’d love to lay you down
There’s so many ways your sweet love made this house into a home
You’ve got a way of doin’ little things that turn me on
Like standin’ in the kitchen in your faded cotton gown
With your hair all up in curlers, I’d still love to lay ya down
Lay ya down and softly whisper pretty love words in your ear
Lay ya down and tell you all the things a woman loves to hear
I’ll let you know how much it means just havin’ you around
Oh darlin’, how I’d love to lay you down
When a whole lot of Decembers are showin’ in your face
Your auburn hair has faded and silver takes its place
You’ll be just as lovely, and I’ll still be around
And if I can, I know that I’d still love to lay you down
Lay ya down and softly whisper pretty love words in your ear
Lay ya down and tell you all the things a woman loves to hear
I’ll let you know how much it means just havin’ you around
Oh darlin’, how I’d love to lay you down
Lay ya down and softly whisper pretty love words in your ear
Lay ya down and tell you all the things my woman loves to hear
I’ll let you know how much it means just havin’ you around
Oh darlin’, how I’d love to lay you down
Lay ya down and softly whisper pretty love words in your ear
Lay ya down and tell you all the things my woman loves to hear
I’ll let you know how much it means just havin’ you around
Oh darlin’, how I’d love to lay you down