Did You Know That Jim Reeves Wrote “He’ll Have to Go” After His Ex Lover Dumped Him And Married Another Man: Shocking Story Revealed



Did You Know That Jim Reeves Wrote “He’ll Have to Go” After His Ex Lover Dumped Him And Married Another Man: Shocking Story Revealed 

Jim Reeves’ classic song **“He’ll Have to Go”** is one of the most iconic tracks in country music history. Released in 1959, the song became a massive hit, reaching the top of the Billboard Country chart and crossing over to the pop charts, where it peaked at number two. Its timeless appeal lies in its emotive lyrics, smooth delivery, and the subtle yet poignant way it conveys longing and heartache.  

The song was written by Joe and Audrey Allison and tells the story of a man who pleads with his lover to choose between him and another man. The lyrics are set in the context of a phone call, with the protagonist asking his lover to dismiss the other man by saying, “He’ll have to go.” The conversational tone of the song makes it feel personal and intimate, as though Reeves is speaking directly to the listener.  

What makes “He’ll Have to Go” so memorable is Jim Reeves’ rich baritone voice, which is both soothing and deeply emotional. His delivery captures the vulnerability and desperation of the protagonist without overdramatizing the sentiment. The restrained yet powerful vocal performance, combined with the lush production characteristic of the Nashville Sound, helped the song appeal to a wide audience.  

The simple but effective arrangement features soft backing vocals, gentle guitar strumming, and a subtle rhythm section, all of which allow Reeves’ voice to take center stage. This minimalist approach highlights the song’s emotional core, drawing the listener into its melancholic narrative.  


The song’s success marked a turning point in Reeves’ career, cementing his reputation as a leading figure in the evolution of country music. It also bridged the gap between country and pop, introducing Reeves to a broader audience and setting a standard for crossover success.  


Beyond its commercial achievements, “He’ll Have to Go” remains a classic because of its universal themes of love, jealousy, and longing. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to Reeves’ artistry and his ability to connect with listeners on a deeply emotional level. Today, it is regarded as one of the defining tracks of the Nashville Sound era and a cornerstone of Jim Reeves’ enduring legacy in music.

1 Comments

  1. THIS IS WRONG. Jim Reeves did NOT write "He'll Have To Go" so the entire premise is incorrect. The song was written by Joe and Audrey Allison. That is confirmed. I wrote a 672-page award winning book called "Jim Reeves: His Untold Story" and I cover that topic (and many others) in my book.

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