Keith Whitley When You Say Nothing at All (Video and Lyrics)

Keith Whitley When You Say Nothing at All

photo: YouTube

Enjoy watching Keith Whitley's "When You Say Nothing at All" music video performance here. . .

The Keith Whitley When You Say Nothing at All song became a hit for the country music star in 1988.  The song was a track on his “Don’t Close Your Eyes” album. This song took the top of the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart on December 24, 1988.  Keith Whitley was born on July 1, 1955, in Sandy Hook, Kentucky. Raised in a musical family, he showed an affinity for music from an early age.

Sadly, on May 9, 1989, at the age of 34, Keith Whitley’s life was tragically cut short due to alcohol poisoning. His untimely death sent shockwaves through the country music community, leaving behind a profound void.

The When You Say Nothing at All Music Video: A Tribute to Keith Whitley

The official music video for “When You Say Nothing at All” holds special significance because it was released after Keith Whitley’s untimely passing in May 1989. The video is a touching tribute to the late singer, featuring a collection of live performance clips and behind-the-scenes footage that celebrate his career.

Watch the music video performance and see the complete lyrics below.

Keith Whitley When You Say Nothing at All Video

The song was written by Paul Overstreet and Don Schlitz and was make popular by three different artists.  “When You Say Nothing at All” tells the story of love expressed without words. The song’s tender lyrics highlight the power of unspoken emotions, resonating deeply with listeners. Overstreet and Schlitz initially doubted that anyone could make the song work, but Keith Whitley’s smooth and heartfelt vocals brought it to life.

Keith Whitley When You Say Nothing at All Lyrics

It’s amazing how you can speak right to my heart
Without saying a word you can light up the dark
Try as I may I could never explain
What I hear when you don’t say a thing
The smile on your face lets me know that you need me
There’s a truth in your eyes saying you’ll never leave me
A touch of your hand says you’ll catch me if ever I fall
Now you say it best when you say nothing at all
All day long I can hear people talking out loud
But when you hold me near you drown out the crowd
Old Mister Webster could never define
What’s being said between your heart and mine
The smile on your face lets me know that you need me
There’s a truth in your eyes saying you’ll never leave me
A touch of your hand says you’ll catch me if ever I fall
Now you say it best when you say nothing at all
The smile on your face lets me know that you need me
There’s a truth in your eyes saying you’ll never leave me
A touch of your hand says you’ll catch me if ever I fall
Now you say it best when you say nothing at all

Enduring Legacy and Covers

Even decades after its release, “When You Say Nothing at All” remains a favorite among country fans. The song gained a second wave of popularity in 1995 when Alison Krauss recorded her own version, which became a major hit in its own right. Her rendition introduced the song to a new generation and earned significant radio airplay.

In 1999, Irish singer Ronan Keating recorded a pop version for the Notting Hill movie soundtrack, further expanding the song’s global reach. While each artist brings their own style, Keith Whitley’s original recording remains the definitive version for many country music purists.

Keith Whitley may have left us far too soon, but his contributions to country music are everlasting. Through his exceptional voice, evocative lyrics, and captivating stage presence, Whitley solidified his place as a country music legend.  Remember to share Keith Whitley When You Say Nothing at All song with other country music fans.

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