Keith Whitley (born Keith Whitley Jr.; July 1, 1955 – May 9, 1989) was an American country music singer. Born in Sandy Hook, Kentucky, Whitley began playing guitar at a young age and was influenced by country music artists such as Merle Haggard and George Jones. In 1983, he signed with RCA Records and released his debut album, A Distant Memory. The album was a commercial success and spawned the hit singles “Miami, My Amy” and “I’m No Stranger to the Rain”.
Don’t Close Your Eyes was the title track and third single from Whitley’s second studio album. The song was produced by Garth Fundis and features a simple arrangement of acoustic guitar, piano, and fiddle. Lyrically, the song is a plea from a man to his lover to not close her eyes and forget about him while he is away.
Don’t Close Your Eyes was a critical and commercial success. The song reached number one on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and number 12 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. It was also a major crossover hit, reaching number one on the Adult Contemporary chart. The song won the Song of the Year award from the Country Music Association in 1988.
Don’t Close Your Eyes has been covered by many artists, including Alan Jackson, Tim McGraw, and Brad Paisley. However, Whitley’s version remains the definitive recording. The song was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2010 and was named one of the “Songs of the Century” by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).
Don’t Close Your Eyes is a beautiful and moving song that has touched the hearts of millions of people around the world. It is a testament to the power of music and the human spirit. The song’s timeless message of love and loss continues to resonate with listeners today.
Here are some additional information about the song:
- The song was written by Bob McDill, who also wrote the songs “Amanda” and “I’ve Got a Winner in You”.
- The song was inspired by McDill’s own experiences with love and loss.
- Whitley’s version of the song was recorded in 1987.
- The song was released as a single in March 1988.
- The song reached number one on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart in August 1988.
- The song was a critical and commercial success.
- The song has been covered by many artists.
- The song was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2010.
Don’t Close Your Eyes is a classic country song that will continue to be enjoyed for generations to come. It is a beautiful and moving song that speaks to the heart.
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Tam Le