“Put Your Sweet Lips a Little Closer (He’ll Have to Go)” is a country song written by Red Sovine and recorded by American country music artist Jim Reeves. It was released in October 1959 as the second single from his album 12 Songs of Love. The song was a major hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart in December 1959. It also crossed over to the pop charts, peaking at number 14 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
The song is a classic country ballad. The song’s narrator is talking to his lover on the phone, and he can tell that she is with another man. He asks her to put her sweet lips a little closer to the phone so that he can pretend that they are together. He tells her that he will tell the man she is with to turn the jukebox down low, and she can tell her friend that he will have to go.
The song’s melody is simple but effective, and the production is lush and atmospheric. Reeves’ vocals are rich and expressive, and he delivers the song with his trademark passion and sincerity.
Background and recording
“Put Your Sweet Lips a Little Closer (He’ll Have to Go)” was written by Red Sovine, who was a country songwriter and recording artist. Sovine wrote the song in the early 1950s, and he recorded it himself in 1954. However, his version of the song was not a commercial success.
Reeves heard Sovine’s version of the song and was immediately drawn to it. He recorded his own version in 1959, and it was released as the second single from his album 12 Songs of Love. The song was produced by Chet Atkins.
The session musicians included Grady Martin on guitar, Hank Garland on guitar, and Buddy Harman on drums.
Release and reception
“Put Your Sweet Lips a Little Closer (He’ll Have to Go)” was released in October 1959. The song quickly became a hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart in December 1959. It also crossed over to the pop charts, peaking at number 14 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
The song was a critical and commercial success. It was praised by critics for its beautiful melody, romantic lyrics, and Reeves’ heartfelt performance. The song was also a major hit with fans, and it helped to solidify Reeves’ status as one of the biggest country music stars of the era.
Legacy
“Put Your Sweet Lips a Little Closer (He’ll Have to Go)” is a classic country love song that has stood the test of time. It is a beautiful and timeless song that continues to be enjoyed by fans around the world. The song is a testament to Reeves’ talent as a singer and a songwriter, and it is sure to be enjoyed for generations to come.
Other notable recordings
“Put Your Sweet Lips a Little Closer (He’ll Have to Go)” has been covered by many artists over the years. Some of the most notable covers include:
- Red Sovine (1954)
- Ernest Tubb (1960)
- Webb Pierce (1960)
- Faron Young (1961)
- Patsy Cline (1962)
Reeves’ version of the song remains the definitive one, but these other covers are all worth listening to.