Don't Close Your Eyes

"Don't Close Your Eyes" is a song written by Bob McDill, and recorded by American country music artist Keith Whitley. It was released in March 1988 as third single from his album of the same name. In the United States, the single reached number-one for the week of August 13, while peaking at number 2 in Canada. Additionally, it was Billboard's number-one country single of the year 1988. Content In the song, the narrator is in a relationship with a girl who is still stuck on a former boyfriend. The narrator tells her, "don't close your eyes," because he believes she is fantasizing about the other guy. Music video The music video was directed by Michael McClary and premiered in mid-1988. Covers The song was covered by Alan Jackson for Keith Whitley's 1995 tribute album, by Kellie Pickler for the deluxe edition of her 2008 self-titled second album, and by The Voice Season 6 contestant Jake Worthington for his audition song and fan-chosen final performance. Garth Brooks performed the song at the 50th CMA Awards whilst Whitley's widow Lorrie Morgan looked emotional in the audience. Garth Brooks also recorded this song for The Ultimate Collection box set only sold at Target stores in 2016.