“He’ll Have to Go”: The Song That Dominated 1960 and Redefined Country Music Forever

When “He’ll Have to Go” reached radio stations in 1959 and early 1960, the response was immediate and overwhelming. The song quickly rose to the top of the Billboard Country Chart, holding the #1 spot for an extraordinary 14 weeks.

This kind of dominance was rare, especially in a genre still struggling for mainstream recognition. But what truly shocked the industry was the song’s success beyond country audiences.

“He’ll Have to Go” climbed all the way to #2 on the Billboard Hot 100, something few country songs had ever accomplished at the time. It didn’t just cross over — it flourished. This achievement proved that the softer, more polished “Nashville Sound” had broad appeal.

Reeves’ smooth baritone attracted listeners who normally preferred pop or easy-listening genres, bridging musical worlds that had long been separated.

Reinventing the Sound of Nashville

Continue reading…