‘He’ll Have to Go’ took over country & pop charts in 1960

The backstory of “He’ll Have to Go” is as interesting as the song itself. Written by Joe and Audrey Allison, the song was inspired by a real-life moment Joe overheard at a bar. A man was on the phone with his lover, begging her to get closer to the phone, trying to win her back.

That became the heart of the song—the opening line, “Put your sweet lips a little closer to the phone.” It’s simple, but it’s that perfect mix of longing and vulnerability that hit home for so many.

A huge moment for country music

When Jim recorded it, he didn’t just sing it — he felt it. The production was minimal, with just enough backing to let his voice shine through. Chet Atkins, who was behind the production, kept things subtle, and the result was this intimate, emotional track that drew listeners in.Continue reading…