It might not be that easy for Lorrie Morgan to sing one of Keith Whitley’s greatest hits in front of many people. But she did it anyway. If other artists can easily become emotional while singing “Don’t Close Your Eyes” to pay tribute to the late country singer, how much more with Lorrie Morgan? Yet, in this old clip of her crooning her ex-husband’s top record, Morgan exhibited a picture of a strong and courageous woman. You can’t spot any shade of sadness on her face or a tear in her eyes. All she displays is a portrait of a woman full of confidence and pride as she performs a song that represents Whitley. Moreover, she delivers the top country song of 1988 with lots of love and emotions. Her rendition is simply astounding and Whitley is sure proud of her watching from heaven.
The video of her captivating performance is a must watch!
A Few Facts of the Song
The prolific country music songwriter Bob McDill penned the lyrics to “Don’t Close Your Eyes” which earned Keith Whitley his first chart-topper on the country charts. Named as Billboard’s No. 1 country song of the year 1988, the single was out in March that year. It showed a gradual climb to the chart’s summit where it peaked on August 13, 1988. In Canada, the song was likewise received favorably by the listening public. A runner-up on the Canadian RPM Country Tracks, “Don’t Close Your Eyes” was a delightful tune among the citizens bringing it almost atop the chart.
Alan Jackson was among the country stars who performed the song in honor of Whitley. He specifically recorded a cover of it for a 1995 tribute album to the late singer. Also, at the 50th annual celebration of the CMA Awards, Garth Brooks delivered a stunning performance of the song. Whitley’s widow Lorrie Morgan couldn’t help but turn emotional watching Brooks sing her ex-husband’s top hit.
Here is Alan Jackson giving justice to Whitley’s “Don’t Close Your Eyes.”
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Alan Jackson, Bob McDill, Don't Close Your Eyes, keith whitley, Lorrie Morgan