About the song
Johnny Tillotson’s “Talk Back Trembling Lips” is a classic pop song from the early 1960s that continues to charm listeners with its heartfelt lyrics and engaging melody. Released in 1960, this track stands out as one of Tillotson’s memorable hits, showcasing his distinctive voice and his talent for conveying emotional depth through music.
The song was written by the accomplished songwriter and producer Paul Kaufman, who, alongside his colleague Mike Anthony, crafted a tune that resonates with themes of emotional vulnerability and unspoken feelings. “Talk Back Trembling Lips” tells the story of someone struggling with their emotions and the difficulty of expressing their true feelings, capturing a universal experience with a catchy and poignant melody.
Upon its release, “Talk Back Trembling Lips” achieved significant success, reaching number 15 on the Billboard Hot 100 and number 10 on the Billboard Country & Western chart. This performance helped to solidify Johnny Tillotson’s place in the music industry as a versatile artist who could bridge the gap between pop and country genres. The song was featured on his album also titled “Talk Back Trembling Lips,” which includes other tracks that highlight Tillotson’s smooth vocal style and his ability to connect with his audience.
Johnny Tillotson’s interpretation of “Talk Back Trembling Lips” is marked by its emotional resonance and melodic appeal, making it a cherished piece of his musical catalog. The song remains a favorite among fans of early 60s pop and country music, celebrated for its heartfelt expression and its memorable tune. For those who appreciate classic music from this era, “Talk Back Trembling Lips” is a beautiful example of Johnny Tillotson’s talent and the timeless quality of his work.
Video
Lyrics
Talk back trembling lips
Shaky legs don’t just stand there
Don’t let her know that she’s getting through to to you
Talk back trembling lips
Burning eyes don’t start crying
Heart don’t let her know that your breaking in two
Every day our love’s a battle royal
Dear it seems that fighting is all we do
But if i let you know how much I love you
You’ll do things to me you shouldn’t do
So talk back trembling lips
Shaky legs don’t just stand there
Don’t let her know that she’s getting through to to you
Talk back trembling lips
Burning eyes don’t start crying
Heart don’t let her know that your breaking in two
Every time you up and hurt my feelings
I pretend it couldn’t matter less
I’m just hiding all of my emotions
Behind my broken heart I guess
So talk back trembling lips
Shaky legs don’t just stand there
Don’t let her know that she’s getting through to to you
Talk back trembling lips
Burning eyes don’t start crying
Heart don’t let her know that your breaking in two
Heart don’t let her know that your breaking in two