Introduction:
Country music icon Toby Keith released “Don’t Leave, I Think I Love You” in 2003 on his album Shock’n Y’all. The song quickly became a hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart. This solidified Keith’s status as a country music powerhouse, following a string of successful singles and albums throughout the 1990s and early 2000s.
“Don’t Leave, I Think I Love You” is a classic country ballad, a genre known for its focus on storytelling and themes of love, loss, and everyday life. The song relies on Keith’s signature baritone vocals, instantly recognizable for their warmth and depth. The lyrics paint a picture of a man coming to terms with his feelings for a woman, realizing them perhaps a little too late at night. Begging her to stay, the narrator pleads his case, hoping for another chance.
The song’s success can be attributed to several factors. The relatable situation and emotional lyrics resonate with listeners who have found themselves questioning their feelings or facing the potential loss of love. Keith’s distinctive vocals deliver the story with sincerity, allowing listeners to connect with the narrator’s internal struggle. “Don’t Leave, I Think I Love You” also benefitted from production by James Stroud, known for his work with top country artists like Ronnie Milsap and Wynonna Judd. Stroud’s experience helped create a soundscape that perfectly complements the song’s emotional core.
Since its release in 2003, “Don’t Leave, I Think I Love You” has become a modern country classic. It continues to receive radio play and is a popular choice for fans at Keith’s concerts. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its relatable story, Keith’s captivating vocals, and the timeless themes explored within the country music ballad genre.
Video:
Lyrics:
“Don’t Leave, I Think I Love You”
[Chorus:]
Don’t leave, I think I love you
I just saw the rest of my life, honey you’re in it
Won’t you hear what I say, give me a minute
Don’t leave, I think I love you
I know you think I’m crazy, And you probably should
I wouldn’t make this up, I couldn’t dream this good
Now baby Don’t tell me that I missed my chance
I haven’t heard last call, would you like to dance?
I’ve been sitting here waiting on you all night
Why don’t you give me that old good-to-go green light
Am I coming on strong, baby movin’ kinda fast
I’m rushing along but at least I gotta ask
I couldn’t live with myself if you got away
I’m a love sick puppy, baby what do you say?
[Chorus]
It’s late and been a long night, you’re tired I know
Aw, don’t break my heart, baby please don’t go
It Ain’t the shikey talkin’, ain’t this neon light
You see I’ve fallen stone-cold in love at first sight
Gonna cut to the chase, baby get right to it
I got a lot to say and a short time to do it
Aw, Don’t walk away honey I’m just trying to
Aw… listen to me talkin’, I’m a babblin’ fool
[chorus]
Really baby, don’t leave
I think I love you
I know you think I’m crazy, and you probably should
I wouldn’t make this up, I couldn’t dream this good