Put Your Sweet Lips a Little Closer (He’ll Have to Go): A Country Music Classic

Jim Reeves, the “Gentleman of Country Music,” released his signature song “Put Your Sweet Lips a Little Closer (He’ll Have to Go)” in 1959. This song, written by Red Hayes and Jack Rhodes, became an instant hit, reaching number one on the Billboard country charts and crossing over to the pop charts, where it peaked at number two.

Background and Recording

By the late 1950s, Reeves had already established himself as a successful country music singer. He had a string of hits, including “Four Walls” and “Billy Bayou,” and was known for his smooth, velvety voice.

“Put Your Sweet Lips a Little Closer (He’ll Have to Go)” was recorded in Nashville, Tennessee, in 1959. The song’s simple yet effective arrangement features Reeves’ vocals backed by a gentle acoustic guitar and piano.

The Song’s Message

The song’s lyrics tell the story of a man who is in love with a woman who is already in a relationship. He asks her to put her lips a little closer to his so that he can kiss her, and tells her that her boyfriend will have to leave if she wants to be with him.

The song’s message of love and longing resonated with listeners across the country, and it helped to make Reeves one of the most popular country music singers of his era.

Impact and Legacy

“Put Your Sweet Lips a Little Closer (He’ll Have to Go)” was not only a commercial success, but it also had a significant impact on country music. The song’s success helped to popularize the “Nashville sound,” a style of country music that was characterized by its smooth, polished production.

In addition to its impact on country music, “Put Your Sweet Lips a Little Closer (He’ll Have to Go)” has also been recognized for its cultural significance. The song was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1999 and was named one of the “500 Greatest Songs of All Time” by Rolling Stone magazine.

“Put Your Sweet Lips a Little Closer (He’ll Have to Go)” is a timeless classic that continues to be enjoyed by listeners today. The song’s simple yet effective message of love and longing, combined with Reeves’ smooth, velvety vocals, have made it a beloved country music standard.

Other Information

• Genre: Country
• Songwriters: Red Hayes and Jack Rhodes
• Producer: Chet Atkins
• Recorded: 1959
• Released: 1959
• B-side: “A Fool Such as I”
• Chart performance:
  • Billboard Hot Country Singles: #1
  • Billboard Hot 100: #2

Accolades:

• Grammy Hall of Fame (1999)
• Rolling Stone magazine’s “500 Greatest Songs of All Time” (2004)

Video