Released in 1980, Conway Twitty’s “I’d Love to Lay You Down” transcends its suggestive title, weaving a tapestry of tender affection and enduring love. Written by Johnny MacRae, the song became Twitty’s 24th number one on the country charts, solidifying his position as a king of romantic ballads.
But “I’d Love to Lay You Down” is far from superficial. It eschews flowery metaphors and grand declarations, opting for intimate whispers and everyday moments. The lyrics paint a picture of domestic bliss, finding beauty in a woman’s “faded cotton gown” and “hair all up in curlers.” This ordinariness becomes the foundation for extraordinary love, where simply “havin’ you around” holds immense meaning.
The song’s emotional depth is further amplified by its unique musical structure. Unlike most songs that modulate upwards, “I’d Love to Lay You Down” progressively descends in key. This creates a sense of intimacy and vulnerability, drawing the listener closer to the singer’s heartfelt confession.
While the title might raise eyebrows, “I’d Love to Lay You Down” ultimately celebrates a love that transcends physicality. It’s a love song for the quiet moments, the whispered endearments, and the enduring comfort of having someone special by your side, even when “a whole lot of Decembers are showin’ in your face.”
So, put on your faded cotton gown, dim the lights, and let Conway Twitty serenade you with a love song that speaks not just to the body, but to the soul. Prepare to be swept away by a love that finds magic in the ordinary, whispered promises, and the simple act of laying down together.
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Lyrics
There’s a lot of ways of sayin’ what I want to say to you There’s songs and poems and promises and dreams that might come true But I won’t talk of starry skies or moonlight on the ground I’ll come right out and tell you I’d just love to lay you down
Lay ya down and softly whisper pretty love words in your ear Lay ya down and tell you all the things a woman loves to hear I’ll let you know how much it means just havin’ you around Oh darlin’, how I’d love to lay you down
There’s so many ways your sweet love made this house into a home You’ve got a way of doin’ little things that turn me on Like standin’ in the kitchen in your faded cotton gown With your hair all up in curlers, I’d still love to lay ya down
Lay ya down and softly whisper pretty love words in your ear Lay ya down and tell you all the things a woman loves to hear I’ll let you know how much it means just havin’ you around Oh darlin’, how I’d love to lay you down
When a whole lot of Decembers are showin’ in your face Your auburn hair has faded and silver takes its place You’ll be just as lovely, and I’ll still be around And if I can, I know that I’d still love to lay you down
Lay ya down and softly whisper pretty love words in your ear Lay ya down and tell you all the things a woman loves to hear I’ll let you know how much it means just havin’ you around Oh darlin’, how I’d love to lay you down
Lay ya down and softly whisper pretty love words in your ear Lay ya down and tell you all the things my woman loves to hear I’ll let you know how much it means just havin’ you around Oh darlin’, how I’d love to lay you down
Lay ya down and softly whisper pretty love words in your ear Lay ya down and tell you all the things my woman loves to hear I’ll let you know how much it means just havin’ you around Oh darlin’, how I’d love to lay you down
