Jim Reeves’ Unmatched Delivery in “He’ll Have to Go”

“He’ll Have to Go” is a classic country and pop song performed by Jim Reeves. Released in 1959, the song became one of Reeves’ signature hits and is considered one of the finest examples of the “Nashville Sound” style.

Written by Joe Allison and Audrey Allison, the lyrics of “He’ll Have to Go” tell the story of a man advising his partner to pretend to be on the phone with him in order to convey that she is unavailable and discourage another potential suitor. The deep, resonant vocals of Jim Reeves enhance the romantic and dramatic elements of the song, making it a timeless classic.

The smooth production and the use of a vocal technique known as the “slip note,” a characteristic feature of the Nashville Sound, contributed to the song’s success. The “slip note” involves smoothly gliding from one note to another, adding a distinctive and pleasing quality to Reeves’ vocal delivery.

“He’ll Have to Go” became a major hit, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and crossing over to the pop charts, peaking at No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song’s success helped solidify Jim Reeves’ reputation as a prominent figure in country music during the late 1950s and early 1960s.

The timeless appeal of “He’ll Have to Go” has led to numerous covers by various artists over the years, and it remains a classic in the country music genre. Jim Reeves’ rendition, with its smooth vocals and elegant production, continues to resonate with audiences and is celebrated as one of the standout recordings of his career.