Revealing the Heart: The Inspiring Tale Behind Charley Pride‘s Hit Song “I’ll Be Leaving Alone”
In the depths of creative collaboration, songwriters Dickey Lee and Wayland Holyfield penned the heartfelt ballad, “I’ll Be Leaving Alone,” during a series of captivating sessions at Lee’s home. Although initially uncertain about the song’s direction, they were determined to find the perfect artist to bring it to life. With Lee having recorded a version himself, it was the keen intuition of RCA executive Jerry Bradley that led them to consider the talented Charley Pride as the ideal voice for this emotionally charged composition.
When Bradley shared “I’ll Be Leaving Alone” with Pride’s wife, Rozene, Charley was hesitant about the song. However, Rozene instantly recognized its brilliance, particularly drawn to the poignant line, “There’s someone in Dallas waiting for me,” which resonated with their own lives in the city. With Rozene’s significant influence over the selection of Charley’s songs, he was swayed by her enthusiasm and agreed to take on the project.
At the time, Pride was riding high on the charts and receiving numerous outstanding song offers. Despite some doubts among RCA executives about the song’s potential, Rozene confidently reassured them, declaring, “Don’t worry about it. ‘I’ll Be Leaving Alone’ will be the one.” And indeed, her unwavering belief proved true.
Beyond her impact on Charley’s musical choices, Rozene also played a pivotal role in the family’s financial affairs. In their early days of marriage, Charley had a habit of spending his earnings, unaware that Rozene had been diligently saving money from her career as a beautician. One evening, when Charley thought they couldn’t afford a necessary expense, Rozene surprised him by revealing the funds she had carefully set aside. Since then, she has managed their finances, ensuring their stability and success.
“I’ll Be Leaving Alone” soared to the top of the charts, claiming the coveted #1 position just seven weeks after its release, on July 9, 1977, on Billboard’s country singles chart. This remarkable achievement marked Charley Pride’s 18th of his 29 chart-topping hits, solidifying his place as a country music legend.
- Artist: Charley Pride
- Released: 1977
- Album: She’s Just an Old Love Turned Memory
Lyrics
Yes, I’ll buy you a drink
If you’d like me to i might even dance
A slow one with you
Lord, knows you’re a looker
And, honey, what’s more
It’s not hard to see
What you’re looking for
‘Cause you’re as tempting a woman
As I’ve ever seen
But there’s someone in Dallas
Who’s trusting in me
She’s the mother of my children
I’m the rock she leans on
So thank you but no thank you
I’ll be leaving alone
As we dance in the shadows
And you’re holding me tight
I can feel the invitation
I’ve seen in your eyes
And the soft light and the music
And the wine’s rosy glow
Ain’t making it easy for me to say no
‘Cause you’re as tempting a woman
As I’ve ever seen
But there’s someone in Dallas
Who’s trusting in me
She’s the mother of my children
I’m the rock she leans on
So thank you but no thank you
I’ll be leaving alone
So thank you but no thank you
I’ll be leaving alone
