About the song
“It Keeps Right On A Hurtin'” by Johnny Tillotson is a classic country and pop crossover hit that resonates deeply with fans of heartfelt, emotive music. Released in 1962, this song quickly became one of Tillotson’s most memorable and successful tracks, showcasing his smooth vocal style and knack for conveying poignant emotion.
The song was written by Johnny Tillotson himself, demonstrating not only his vocal talent but also his skill as a songwriter. “It Keeps Right On A Hurtin'” was included in Tillotson’s album of the same name, which further solidified his place in the music industry during the early 1960s.
One of the song’s most remarkable achievements was its success on various music charts. It reached the number 3 position on the Billboard Hot 100, an impressive feat that highlighted its crossover appeal. Additionally, it secured the number 4 spot on the country charts and climbed to number 6 on the Adult Contemporary chart. This wide-ranging success underscored Tillotson’s versatility as an artist capable of bridging different musical genres.
The lyrics of “It Keeps Right On A Hurtin'” reflect a universal theme of lingering heartache and sorrow, capturing the pain of lost love with simplicity and sincerity. Tillotson’s heartfelt delivery makes the listener feel the weight of every word, turning the song into a timeless anthem for anyone who has ever experienced heartache.
Beyond its chart performance, the song’s enduring popularity is evident in the numerous covers by other artists over the years, including renditions by notable figures such as Elvis Presley and Billy Joe Royal. This further testifies to the song’s impact and its resonance across different musical landscapes.
“It Keeps Right On A Hurtin'” stands as a testament to Johnny Tillotson’s enduring legacy in the music world, a song that continues to touch hearts and evoke strong emotions more than half a century after its initial release.
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Lyrics
I cry myself to sleep each night
Wishing I could hold you tight
Life seems so empty since you went away
The pillow where you’d lay your head
Now holds my lonely tears instead
And it keeps right on a-hurtin’ since you’re gone
It keeps right on a-hurtin’ every minute of the day
Every hour you’re away I feel so lonely
And I can’t help it, I don’t think I can go on
And it keeps right on a-hurtin’ since you’re gone
They say a man should never cry
But when I see you passin’ by
My heart breaks down and cries a million tears
You broke my heart and set me free
But you forgot your memory
And it keeps right on a-hurtin’ since you’re gone
It keeps right on a-hurtin’ every minute of the day
Every hour you’re away I feel so lonely
And I can’t help it, I don’t think I can go on
And it keeps right on a-hurtin’ since you’re gone