About the song
“I’d Love to Lay You Down” is a captivating country ballad penned by Johnny MacRae and immortalized by the legendary Conway Twitty. Released in January 1980 as the lead single from Twitty’s album “Heart & Soul,” the song swiftly climbed to the top of the country charts, marking Twitty’s impressive 24th number one hit. Its enduring popularity is underscored by its distinctive musical arrangement and heartfelt lyrics, which have resonated with audiences for decades.
One of the song’s most notable features is its unconventional series of key changes. Instead of following the typical musical pattern of ascending key changes, “I’d Love to Lay You Down” progressively lowers in key throughout its duration. This unique approach not only showcases Twitty’s vocal range and versatility but also adds a distinct charm to the song’s romantic narrative.
Lyrically, the song paints a tender picture of intimate desire and longing. Twitty’s smooth and emotive delivery captures the essence of romance as he croons about wanting to share a moment of intimacy with his lover. The sincerity in his voice and the passion in the lyrics resonate deeply, making the song a timeless expression of love and longing.
Over the years, “I’d Love to Lay You Down” has garnered continued recognition and admiration. It remains a classic in Twitty’s extensive discography and a standout in the country music genre. The song’s impact is further highlighted by its digital success, having sold over 300,000 digital copies since becoming available for download, a testament to its enduring appeal and relevance in modern times.
Beyond its initial release, the song has also inspired artists like Daryle Singletary, who paid homage with a remake in 2002 that reached number 43 on the country charts. Additionally, contemporary country artist Chris Young referenced the song in his own work, “I Can Take It from There,” showcasing its lasting influence on the genre and subsequent generations of musicians.
“I’d Love to Lay You Down” stands as a testament to Conway Twitty’s prowess as both a vocalist and a storyteller. Its blend of heartfelt lyrics, distinctive musical arrangement, and enduring appeal ensures its place as a beloved classic in country music history, continuing to captivate listeners with its timeless charm and emotional depth.
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Lyrics
There’s a lot of ways of sayin’ what I want to say to you
There’s songs and poems and promises and dreams that might come true
But I won’t talk of starry skies or moonlight on the ground
I’ll come right out and tell you I’d just love to lay you down
Lay ya down and softly whisper pretty love words in your ear
Lay ya down and tell you all the things a woman loves to hear
I’ll let you know how much it means just havin’ you around
Oh darlin’, how I’d love to lay you down
There’s so many ways your sweet love made this house into a home
You’ve got a way of doin’ little things that turn me on
Like standin’ in the kitchen in your faded cotton gown
With your hair all up in curlers, I’d still love to lay ya down
Lay ya down and softly whisper pretty love words in your ear
Lay ya down and tell you all the things a woman loves to hear
I’ll let you know how much it means just havin’ you around
Oh darlin’, how I’d love to lay you down
When a whole lot of Decembers are showin’ in your face
Your auburn hair has faded and silver takes its place
You’ll be just as lovely, and I’ll still be around
And if I can, I know that I’d still love to lay you down
Lay ya down and softly whisper pretty love words in your ear
Lay ya down and tell you all the things a woman loves to hear
I’ll let you know how much it means just havin’ you around
Oh darlin’, how I’d love to lay you down
Lay ya down and softly whisper pretty love words in your ear
Lay ya down and tell you all the things my woman loves to hear
I’ll let you know how much it means just havin’ you around
Oh darlin’, how I’d love to lay you down
Lay ya down and softly whisper pretty love words in your ear
Lay ya down and tell you all the things my woman loves to hear
I’ll let you know how much it means just havin’ you around
Oh darlin’, how I’d love to lay you down