Introduction:
Jim Reeves’ “Have I Told You Lately That I Love You”. Now that’s a song that tugs at the heartstrings, a true cornerstone of the classic country genre. Released in 1964, it arrived at a time when Reeves was already a well-established name, known for his smooth baritone and sincere delivery. But “Have I Told You Lately That I Love You” became something more – a standard, a timeless expression of devotion that continues to resonate with listeners today.
The song itself is a quiet charmer. It doesn’t rely on elaborate production or flashy instrumentals. Instead, it focuses on the simple beauty of the lyrics, penned by songwriter Scotty Wiseman. Reeves’ voice, accompanied by a gentle acoustic guitar and a touch of steel guitar, carries the weight of the song’s message. The questions come one after another, each one a heartfelt plea, a reminder of the all-encompassing love the narrator feels. “Have I told you lately that I love you?” The repetition itself underscores the yearning, the need for constant reassurance.
There’s a vulnerability in Reeves’ performance that makes the song so endearing. He doesn’t try to overpower you with emotion; instead, he lets the sincerity of the lyrics shine through. It’s a song for quiet moments, for stolen glances across the table, for whispering sweet nothings in the dead of night. It’s a song that reminds us of the importance of expressing our love, of not taking our partners for granted.
“Have I Told You Lately That I Love You” wasn’t an immediate chart-topping success upon its release. However, its popularity grew steadily over the years. Country music radio embraced it, and it became a popular choice for weddings and anniversaries. Reeves himself never saw the song’s full impact, tragically passing away in a plane crash in 1964, the same year the song was released. However, “Have I Told You Lately That I Love You” transcended its origins. It crossed genres, finding a place in the hearts of pop and even jazz audiences. Artists as diverse as Rod Stewart, Rod McKuen, and even the unlikely pairing of Jerry Lee Lewis and Linda Ronstadt have covered the song, a testament to its universal appeal.
Today, “Have I Told You Lately That I Love You” remains a beloved classic. It’s a song that has been featured in countless movies and television shows, a constant reminder of the power of love’s simple expression. It’s a song that soothes the soul, a testament to the enduring legacy of Jim Reeves, the man with the velvet voice who could make even the most basic question sound like a profound declaration of love.