Jim Reeves – He’ll Have To Go: A Countrypolitan Gem of Heartache and Heartbreak
In the golden age of country music, a smooth baritone voice rose to prominence, captivating audiences with its sincerity and emotional depth. That voice belonged to Jim Reeves, a singer whose legacy extends far beyond the honky-tonk bars and dusty roads that birthed the genre. Among his numerous hits, one song stands out for its relatable narrative and timeless appeal: He’ll Have To Go.
Background
Released in 1959, He’ll Have To Go marked a turning point in Reeves’ career. While he had established himself with songs like “Bimbo” and “Four Walls,” this single showcased a more introspective side, delving into themes of heartbreak and betrayal. The song rocketed to the top of the charts, reaching number one on the Billboard Country Singles chart and number two on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, solidifying Reeves’ status as a crossover artist and a household name.
The song’s narrative unfolds through a late-night phone call. A man, filled with a mixture of sadness and anger, pleads with his lover to end a budding relationship with another man. The lyrics, penned by the husband-and-wife team of Joe and Audrey Allison, capture the raw emotions of jealousy and the struggle to maintain a failing relationship.
Opening Verse:
Put your sweet lips a little closer to the phone Let’s pretend that we’re together all alone I’ll tell the man to turn the jukebox way down low And you can tell your friend there with you he’ll have to go
These opening lines set the stage for a tense situation, where intimacy is strained and the presence of a rival casts a long shadow. Reeves’ velvety vocals deliver the lyrics with a quiet desperation, drawing the listener into the protagonist’s emotional turmoil.
He’ll Have To Go is a product of the era it was born in, the late 1950s, often referred to as the “Nashville Sound” era. This period saw the integration of pop music elements into country music, resulting in a smoother and more polished sound. The song’s instrumentation reflects this trend, featuring a subtle string section alongside the traditional country staples of acoustic guitar and steel guitar. This blend creates a melancholic yet sophisticated soundscape that perfectly complements the emotional weight of the lyrics.
He’ll Have To Go has transcended its time, becoming a beloved classic covered by numerous artists across genres. From country crooners like George Jones and Conway Twitty to pop singers like Engelbert Humperdinck, the song’s relatable themes and Reeves’ masterful delivery continue to resonate with listeners.
Beyond its commercial success, He’ll Have To Go stands as a timeless testament to the power of country music storytelling. With its relatable narrative, emotional depth, and signature “Nashville Sound” production, the song continues to capture the hearts of listeners, reminding us of the universal experiences of love, loss, and heartbreak.