Jim Reeves’ Timeless Classic: “He’ll Have to Go”
Jim Reeves, known as “Gentleman Jim,” captivated the hearts of millions with his smooth, velvet voice, and nowhere is this more evident than in his hit song “He’ll Have to Go.” Released in the fall of 1959, this song quickly became a defining moment in both country and pop music history. By early 1960, it had not only dominated the charts but also solidified Reeves’ status as one of the most beloved artists of his time.
“He’ll Have to Go” is a poignant tale of love, jealousy, and the pain of unspoken emotions. The song tells the story of a man who, over a telephone call, realizes that the woman he loves is not alone. As he listens to the background noise, his heart sinks, and he urges her to make a choice: “Put your sweet lips a little closer to the phone / Let’s pretend that we’re together all alone.” This line, delivered with Reeves’ characteristic warmth and sincerity, strikes at the core of the human experience, making the listener feel the weight of the situation.
The song was penned by the husband-and-wife duo Joe and Audrey Allison, who were inspired by a real-life telephone conversation where they struggled to hear each other. Audrey’s soft voice and the background noise led to the creation of the song’s opening line, which would go on to become one of the most memorable in music history. When Jim Reeves recorded the song on October 15, 1959, he brought to it a depth and emotion that resonated deeply with audiences across the globe.
Originally released as the B-side to “In a Mansion Stands My Love,” it was “He’ll Have to Go” that captured the attention of disc jockeys and listeners alike. The song quickly became a massive hit, reaching number 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 in early 1960, narrowly missing the top spot due to Percy Faith’s “Theme from A Summer Place.” However, in the realm of country music, it was unmatched, holding the number 1 spot on the Hot Country Singles chart for an impressive 14 consecutive weeks. Its success wasn’t limited to the United States; it topped charts in Canada and Australia and made a significant impact in the UK as well.
The musical arrangement of “He’ll Have to Go” is as timeless as the lyrics. Accompanied by the Anita Kerr Singers’ haunting background vocals, the song features a small ensemble of talented musicians, including Floyd Cramer on piano and Hank Garland on guitar. The simplicity of the arrangement allowed Reeves’ voice to take center stage, with its rich, resonant tone drawing listeners in.
Country music historian Bill Malone praised Jim Reeves’ vocal performance, noting that his lowered, more natural pitch contributed to the “caressing style that became famous.” This vocal styling was a significant factor in the song’s cross-genre appeal, making it a favorite not only among country fans but also on pop and rhythm and blues stations.
In the years since its release, “He’ll Have to Go” has been covered by numerous artists, but none have matched the emotional depth and authenticity that Jim Reeves brought to the original recording. The song remains a staple in the world of country music, a testament to its enduring power and the lasting legacy of Jim Reeves. As we listen to it today, we’re reminded of the simplicity and beauty of a well-told story, one that speaks to the universal experiences of love, loss, and longing.