About the song
“When You Say Nothing at All” is a timeless classic by Keith Whitley that has resonated deeply with audiences since its release. This song, which appeared on Whitley’s 1988 album “Don’t Close Your Eyes,” showcases his emotive vocal delivery and heartfelt lyrics, making it a standout track in the realm of country music.
The song was written by the talented songwriting duo Paul Overstreet and Don Schlitz. Overstreet and Schlitz have penned numerous hits in the country genre, but “When You Say Nothing at All” remains one of their most beloved compositions. The song’s gentle melody and poignant lyrics capture the essence of unspoken love, highlighting the profound connection that can exist between two people without the need for words.
Upon its release, “When You Say Nothing at All” quickly climbed the charts, reaching the coveted number one spot on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart. This achievement marked a significant milestone in Keith Whitley’s career, solidifying his status as a leading voice in country music during the late 1980s.
The song’s enduring popularity is evidenced by its continued relevance and numerous covers by other artists over the years. Notably, Alison Krauss recorded a version in 1995, which also enjoyed significant success and introduced the song to a new generation of listeners. Krauss’s rendition topped the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart, further cementing the song’s legacy in country music history.
Keith Whitley’s “When You Say Nothing at All” remains a quintessential country ballad, cherished for its simplicity and emotional depth. The song’s ability to convey the power of silent communication and the strength of love through subtlety continues to touch the hearts of listeners, making it a perennial favorite in the world of country music.
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Lyrics
It’s amazing how you can speak right to my heart
Without saying a word you can light up the dark
Try as I may I could never explain
What I hear when you don’t say a thing
The smile on your face lets me know that you need me
There’s a truth in your eyes saying you’ll never leave me
A touch of your hand says you’ll catch me if ever I fall
Yeah, you say it best
When you say nothing at all
All day long I can hear people talking out loud
But when you hold me near you drown out the crowd
Old Mister Webster could never define
What’s being said between your heart and mine
The smile on your face lets me know that you need me
There’s a truth in your eyes saying you’ll never leave me
A touch of your hand says you’ll catch me if ever I fall
Yeah, you say it best
When you say nothing at all
The smile on your face lets me know that you need me
There’s a truth in your eyes saying you’ll never leave me
A touch of your hand says you’ll catch me if ever I fall
Yeah, you say it best
When you say nothing at all