It Keeps Right On A Hurtin’ – Johnny Tillotson’s Timeless Ballad of Heartache
Few songs capture the enduring pain of lost love as poignantly as “It Keeps Right On A Hurtin’” by Johnny Tillotson. Released in 1962, this emotionally charged ballad became a signature hit for Tillotson and remains one of the most memorable heartbreak songs of the early 1960s.
The Story Behind the Song
Johnny Tillotson, known for his smooth tenor voice and crossover appeal, wrote and recorded “It Keeps Right On A Hurtin’” during a time when blending country and pop music was becoming increasingly popular. The song was released by Cadence Records and quickly climbed the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at No. 3, while also charting high on the country and adult contemporary lists.
What sets this song apart is its raw emotional honesty. Unlike many pop hits of the time, which often focused on teenage romance and optimism, “It Keeps Right On A Hurtin’” dives into the lingering sorrow that follows a painful breakup.
Lyrics That Speak to the Heart
The opening lines of the song immediately set a melancholic tone:
“I cry myself to sleep each night, wishing I could hold you tight…”
Throughout the song, Tillotson repeats the refrain:
“It keeps right on a-hurtin’ since you’re gone.”
This repeated line emphasizes how grief doesn’t fade quickly—a universal theme that resonates with anyone who has experienced the loss of love.
Musical Style and Influence
“It Keeps Right On A Hurtin’” perfectly balances country-style storytelling with a pop-friendly arrangement. The gentle acoustic guitar, soft strings, and subtle vocal harmonies give the song a warm, bittersweet feel, allowing listeners to fully immerse themselves in the emotion.
Tillotson’s delivery is both tender and restrained, which makes the pain feel all the more real. His ability to express vulnerability helped pave the way for other artists to blur the lines between country, pop, and adult contemporary genres.
Legacy and Covers
The impact of “It Keeps Right On A Hurtin’” is undeniable. It has been covered by several legendary artists, including:
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Elvis Presley – who added a soulful depth to the song in his 1969 recording
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Dean Martin – bringing a smooth crooner’s touch
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Billy Joe Royal and others in the country scene
Each cover brings a unique interpretation, but Johnny Tillotson’s original version remains the definitive and most beloved.
Why It Still Matters
In today’s fast-paced music world, where trends change overnight, the enduring popularity of “It Keeps Right On A Hurtin’” is a testament to the power of heartfelt songwriting. The song continues to be featured on classic hits stations, playlists, and in retrospectives of 1960s music.
Whether you’re a fan of country, pop, or just powerful lyrics, this song connects across generations.
Final Thoughts
“It Keeps Right On A Hurtin’” by Johnny Tillotson isn’t just a song—it’s an emotional experience. Its honest lyrics, gentle melody, and timeless theme make it a standout in the world of heartbreak ballads.
If you haven’t heard it lately, give it a listen—you might just find that it still tugs at your heartstrings the same way it did over 60 years ago.
Lyrics: It Keeps Right On A Hurtin’
I cry myself to sleep each night
Wishing I could hold you tight
Life seems so empty since you went away
The pillow where you lay your head
Now holds my lonely tears instead
And it keeps right on a-hurtin’
Since you’re goneIt keeps right on a-hurtin every minute of the day
Every hour you’re away I feel so lonely
And I can’t help it, I don’t think I can go on
And it keeps right on a-hurtin’ since you’re goneThey say a man should never cry
But when I see you passing by
My heart breaks down and cries a million tears
You broke my heart and set me free
But you forgot your memory
And keeps right on a-hurtin’ since your goneIt keeps right on a-hurtin every minute of the day
Every hour you’re away I feel so lonely
And I can’t help it, I don’t think I can go on
And it keeps right on a-hurtin’ since you’re gone
