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

In 1960, Jim Reeves dropped a song that would go on to change the game in both country and pop music—“He’ll Have to Go.”

With its smooth vocals and lush orchestration, the track became a hit that bridged the gap between two genres, making Reeves a legend. His voice? Pure velvet. His style? Sophisticated and polished. And the song? It became a cultural phenomenon, cementing Jim as one of Nashville’s finest.

The impact of “He’ll Have to Go” didn’t stop with chart numbers. It became a cultural touchstone, a song that people could relate to, no matter their background. The heartbreak, the pleading—it’s universal. And Jim’s delivery? It’s that perfect blend of confidence and vulnerability. He didn’t have to overdo it—his voice just worked.