About the song
Skeeter Davis and Bobby Bare’s duet, “A Dear John Letter,” is a memorable piece of country music that beautifully encapsulates the emotional depth and storytelling that characterized the genre during the 1960s. Released in 1965, this song stands out not only for its poignant lyrics but also for the chemistry between its two renowned performers.
The song was penned by the talented songwriting duo of Harlan Howard and Skeeter Davis herself. Howard, known for his impactful and often heart-wrenching lyrics, and Davis, who brought her own personal touch to the song, created a narrative that resonates with themes of heartbreak and separation. The story unfolds through a series of heartfelt exchanges between the two characters, making it a compelling listen.
“A Dear John Letter” was featured on Skeeter Davis’s album Skeeter Davis Sings, which was released in 1965. This album was instrumental in solidifying Davis’s place in country music and showcased her versatility as an artist. The song itself achieved notable success, reaching number 5 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. This chart position highlighted the song’s widespread appeal and demonstrated the strong impact it had on both fans and critics alike.
For those who appreciate classic country music, “A Dear John Letter” offers a poignant glimpse into the emotional storytelling that defines the genre. The combination of Skeeter Davis’s distinctive voice and Bobby Bare’s engaging delivery creates a duet that continues to resonate with listeners. Whether you’re revisiting this classic or discovering it anew, “A Dear John Letter” remains a testament to the exceptional talents of both artists and their significant contributions to country music.
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Lyrics
Dear John, oh, how I hate to write
Dear John, I must let you know tonight
That my love for you has died away like grass upon the lawn
And tonight I wed another, dear John
I was overseas in battle
When the postman came to me (Dear John)
He handed me a letter
(I must let you know tonight) And I was just as happy as I could be
‘Cause the fighting was all over
(That my love for you has died away) And the battles have all been won
(Like grass upon the lawn) But then I opened up the letter
(And tonight I wed another, dear John) And that started “Dear John”
Won’t you please send back my picture?
(I hate to write) My husband wants it now
(Dear John) When I tell you who I’m wedding
(I must let you know tonight) You won’t care dear anyhow
(That my love for you) And it hurts me so to tell you
(Has died away) That my love for you has gone
(Like grass upon the lawn) But tonight I wed your brother, dear John
And tonight I wed another, dear John