Del Reeves is probably best known for his fair share of 1960s hits. He proved that he could become a country singer in his own right and become successful, with songs such as "The Girl on the Billboard" and "The Belles of Southern Bell", both highlights from his career. He is also known for his 1968 trucker's anthem "Looking at the World through a Windshield" which proved he was capable of singing more than just novelty songs.
Del Reeves was born in Sparta, North Carolina in 1932.
In 1954, he signed on with Capitol Records. Later on in the 1950s, he recorded for Decca Records, as well as Reprise Records and Columbia Records.
Everything began to change when Reeves signed on with United Artists Records. The work he did for United Artists is probably his best known work. He finally scored big in 1961 with the hit song "Be Quiet Mind". Later in 1965, he had his first #1 hit with "The Girl on the Billboard". His follow-up, "The Belles of the Southern Belle" made the Country Top Five. During this time, he and his wife became a songwriting team. The husband-wife duo wrote songs for the likes of Rose Maddox, Carl Smith and Roy Drusky, to name a few.
His success continued throughout the rest of the 1960s. Songs that became hits during this time are "Be Glad" and "Good Time Charlie's."
In the 1970s, he cut a series of duets with Bobby Goldsboro and Penny DeHaven. He also returned to television, hosting the TV program, Del Reeves' Country Carnival.
His last big hit was in "The Philadelphia Fillies." His career declined in the mid-70s and then started to slowly move away from Country music. However, he did record some duets with Billie Jo Spears in 1976.
In 1979, he left his musical career to pursue a career as a music executive. He played a big role in the signing of Billy Ray Cyrus. Reeves continued to record in the 1980s, just not as much and for smaller labels.
Del Reeves joined the Grand Ole Opry in 1966, where he continued to perform until his later years. His last Opry performance was in August 2002.
He died from emphysema on New Year's Day, 2007.
Just a Closer Walk with Thee
Del Reeves Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
I'll be satisfied as long as I walk let me walk close to Thee
Just a closer walk with Thee grant it Jesus is my plea
Daily walking close to Thee let it be dear Lord let it be
When my feeble life is o'er time for me will be no more
Guide me gently safely o'er to Thy kingdom shores to Thy shores
Just a closer walk with Thee
is a gospel hymn that speaks to one's desire to maintain a close relationship with Jesus Christ. The lyrics suggest that the singer recognizes their own weaknesses and needs but understands the strength and guidance that can come from walking in the presence of Jesus. The repetition of the phrase "just a closer walk with thee" emphasizes the simplicity of the request being made - a simple, but powerful request for guidance.
The first verse acknowledges the singer's own inadequacies and begs for strength and guidance from Jesus to avoid wrongdoings. The second verse is a plea for a daily closeness to Jesus, a commitment to walking with him each day. Finally, the third verse is a recognition of the ultimate destination in the afterlife and a plea for a safe journey to the kingdom of heaven.
This hymn has been popularized by many artists, including Patsy Cline, Johnny Cash, and Willie Nelson. Its enduring popularity speaks to the power of its message and the universality of the desire for guidance and spiritual connection.
Line by Line Meaning
I am weak but Thou art strong Jesus keep me from all wrong
I acknowledge my weaknesses but I rely on your strength, Jesus, to keep me from all evil and temptations.
I'll be satisfied as long as I walk let me walk close to Thee
Walking close to you, Jesus, satisfies my soul and brings me contentment.
Just a closer walk with Thee grant it Jesus is my plea
All I ask for, Jesus, is to walk closer to you, to feel your presence and guidance in my life.
Daily walking close to Thee let it be dear Lord let it be
Let me walk daily in your presence and feel your love and protection, dear Lord.
When my feeble life is o'er time for me will be no more
When my limited time on earth comes to an end, there will be no more opportunities to walk with you.
Guide me gently safely o'er to Thy kingdom shores to Thy shores
Guide me safely to your kingdom, Jesus, where I will find peace and eternal rest in your loving embrace.
Lyrics © Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: BILL (USA) BLACK, TRADITIONAL, PD TRADITIONAL
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
@j-p.8056
I’ve been wanting and waiting to hear this one, thank you!
@user-jq2pw9ny5s
This first time I’ve ever heard him sing. Didn’t know who he was. But I’ll be damned I’ve had this album since he probably made it. It was my grandmothers god bless her soul 🙏😊
@basedfarmer
Great stuff, thanks James! God bless
@antoniofernandesdequeiroga6197
I'm back in order to enjoy great carrer albums.(Brazil)
@cannamorm
It's Vail