Introduction
Don’t Close Your Eyes: A Heartfelt Ballad by Alan Jackson
“Don’t Close Your Eyes,” recorded by country music icon Alan Jackson, isn’t one of his original compositions. The song actually originated as a tribute to another country legend, Keith Whitley.
Released in 1994 on the album “Keith Whitley: A Tribute Album,” “Don’t Close Your Eyes” was written by songwriter Bob McDill. McDill, known for crafting country hits like “Amanda” and “Grandpa,” penned the song for Whitley, who tragically passed away in 1989 at the young age of 33. Whitley had recorded a demo of “Don’t Close Your Eyes” but it remained unreleased until the tribute album.
Jackson’s version captures the raw emotion of the song. The lyrics paint a picture of a man yearning for his lover’s full presence, acknowledging her lingering feelings for a past love. He pleads with her to “let yesterday go” and “don’t close your eyes” when they’re together, implying a desire for her to be fully present in the moment.
“Don’t Close Your Eyes” became a fan favorite despite not being a single release. It showcases Jackson’s signature smooth vocals and his ability to connect with listeners through relatable themes of love, longing, and the complexities of relationships. While originally intended to honor Keith Whitley, Alan Jackson’s rendition of “Don’t Close Your Eyes” became a country ballad cherished in its own right.