“He’ll Have to Go,” a timeless country classic, solidified Jim Reeves’ position as a crooning legend in 1959. Reeves, often known as “Gentleman Jim” for his smooth baritone voice and polished stage presence, was already a rising star in the late 1950s, transitioning from a honky-tonk style towards a more sophisticated, pop-infused country sound. He had already achieved chart success with songs like “Bimbo,” but “He’ll Have to Go” propelled him to international stardom, becoming his signature song.
The song itself, penned by Joe Allison and Audrey Allison, tells the tale of a man trying to reassure his sweetheart over the phone while she’s with another man. Unable to be physically present, he relies on coded language and a heartfelt plea for her to remember their love, ultimately hoping she’ll choose him. The lyrics paint a picture of longing and insecurity, capturing the vulnerability inherent in romantic relationships. He suggests she simply signal him to call back, so that the “other guy” has to leave her to answer the phone, and thus, “he’ll have to go”.
“He’ll Have to Go” topped the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart for 14 weeks and crossed over to the pop charts, reaching number two on the Billboard Hot 100. Its massive success spawned numerous covers and solidified Reeves’ influence on the emerging “Nashville Sound.”
Audience response to “He’ll Have to Go” was overwhelmingly positive, praising its relatable lyrics, Reeves’ emotive delivery, and the overall romantic atmosphere of the song. Listeners connected with the feelings of jealousy and longing conveyed in the lyrics, and the song’s elegant arrangement made it appealing to a wide audience, bridging the gap between country and pop music. To this day, it remains a beloved classic and a testament to Jim Reeves’ enduring appeal.
