About the song
“Don’t Close Your Eyes” by Keith Whitley is a poignant country ballad that resonated deeply with audiences upon its release in March 1988. Written by Bob McDill, the song served as the third single from Whitley’s album of the same name, propelling him to the forefront of country music with its heartfelt lyrics and emotive delivery.
The song swiftly climbed to the top of the charts, reaching number one on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs for the week of August 13, 1988. Its popularity extended beyond the United States, peaking at number 2 on the Canadian country charts and earning recognition as Billboard’s number-one country single of the year 1988. This success solidified Whitley’s reputation as a masterful storyteller and vocalist within the country music genre.
In “Don’t Close Your Eyes,” the narrator grapples with a relationship where his partner remains emotionally tied to a former lover. He implores her not to shut out reality or fantasize about the past, capturing the raw vulnerability of unrequited love and longing. Bob McDill’s evocative lyrics combined with Whitley’s soulful interpretation created a timeless appeal that continues to resonate with listeners.
The music video for the song, directed by Michael McClary and released in mid-1988, complemented the narrative of the song, enhancing its emotional impact through visual storytelling.
Throughout the years, “Don’t Close Your Eyes” has been covered by notable artists such as Alan Jackson and Kellie Pickler, underscoring its enduring influence and significance in country music. Alan Jackson’s rendition for Keith Whitley’s tribute album and subsequent performances by other artists have kept the song’s legacy alive, reinforcing its status as a cherished classic.
Beyond its chart-topping success and critical acclaim, “Don’t Close Your Eyes” remains a fixture in country music history, cherished for its ability to evoke profound emotions and resonate with listeners on a personal level. Its digital sales and continued presence in popular culture attest to its lasting impact, ensuring that Keith Whitley’s heartfelt balladry continues to captivate audiences well into the future.
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