About the song
“Don’t Close Your Eyes” is a poignant country ballad written by Bob McDill and immortalized by the late Keith Whitley. Released in March 1988 as the third single from his album of the same name, the song quickly ascended to the top of the charts, becoming a cornerstone of Whitley’s musical legacy. It reached number-one on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs, holding the top spot for the week of August 13, 1988, and earning the distinction of being Billboard’s number-one country single of the year.
The song’s narrative delves into the emotional complexities of love and longing. It paints a picture of a narrator deeply invested in a relationship with someone still haunted by memories of a past love. The chorus, pleadingly advising, “don’t close your eyes,” encapsulates the narrator’s plea for their partner to remain present in their shared reality rather than retreating into thoughts of another.
Directed by Michael McClary, the music video premiered in mid-1988, adding a visual layer to the song’s evocative storytelling. The video further enhanced the song’s impact, solidifying its emotional resonance with viewers.
In addition to Whitley’s rendition, “Don’t Close Your Eyes” has been reinterpreted by various artists over the years. Notable covers include Alan Jackson’s rendition for a tribute album dedicated to Whitley, Kellie Pickler’s version on her deluxe edition release, and a heartfelt tribute by Kxng Crooked, Truth Ali, Jonathan Hay, and Morgan McRae titled “Don’t Close Your Eyes (Ashamed Remix).” Each rendition pays homage to Whitley’s enduring influence on the country music landscape.
The song’s enduring popularity is underscored by its certifications and digital sales success. Certified Platinum by the RIAA for selling over a million units, “Don’t Close Your Eyes” continues to resonate with audiences, reaffirming its status as a timeless classic within the country music genre.
As a tribute to Keith Whitley’s legacy, “Don’t Close Your Eyes” remains a poignant reminder of the power of heartfelt storytelling and enduring musical talent, capturing the essence of love, loss, and the bittersweet realities of relationships.
Video
Lyrics
I know you loved him
A long time ago
Even now in my arms
You still want him, I know
But darling this time
Let your memories die
When you hold me tonight
Don’t close your eyes
Don’t close your eyes
Let it be me
Don’t pretend it’s him
In some fantasy
Darling, just once let yesterday go
And you’ll find more love
Than you’ve ever known
Just hold me tight
When you love me tonight
And don’t close your eyes
Maybe I’ve been a fool
Holding on all this time
Lyin’ here in your arms
Knowing he’s in your mind
But I keep hoping some day
That you’ll see the light
Let it be me tonight
Don’t close your eyes
Don’t close your eyes
Let it be me
Don’t pretend it’s him
In some fantasy
Darling, just once let yesterday go
And you’ll find more love
Than you’ve ever known
Just hold me tight
When you love me tonight
And don’t close your eyes
Don’t close your eyes
Let it be me
Don’t pretend it’s him
In some fantasy
Darling, just once let yesterday go
You’ll find more love
Than you’ve ever known
Just hold me tight
When you love me tonight
And don’t close your eyes
Just hold me tight
When you love me tonight
And don’t close your eyes