Keith Whitley’s music has always been an emotional powerhouse, his soulful voice leaving a mark on generations of country fans. Don’t Close Your Eyes, one of his most iconic hits, continues to resonate deeply. When a young Luke Combs decided to cover this heart-wrenching ballad, it wasn’t just another performance—it was a tribute to a country legend, and he completely crushed it.
COUNTRY MUSIC STORIES
Luke Combs Channels Keith Whitley’s Legacy
Before the CMA Entertainer of the Year awards and selling out massive stadiums, Luke Combs was just another guy with a guitar, a powerhouse voice, and an undeniable love for traditional country. In an old video that’s resurfacing, Combs, with nothing but an acoustic guitar and his signature raspy vocals, delivers a raw and authentic version of Whitley’s Don’t Close Your Eyes. It’s simple, stripped-down, and yet, it showcases his deep respect for Whitley’s legacy.
What sets this cover apart isn’t just the impressive vocal control—it’s how Combs keeps the song’s essence intact, preserving the raw emotion of the original without over-singing or modernizing it. It’s a pure tribute that highlights Combs’ deep understanding of country music’s roots.
The Song’s Legacy
Don’t Close Your Eyes was Whitley’s first No. 1 hit, released in 1988, and it remains one of country’s most beloved tracks. With lyrics written by Bob McDill, the song’s heartbreak and longing made it a timeless classic. Whitley’s tragic passing in 1989 only added to the song’s emotional weight, cementing his place as one of country’s greatest voices.
A Voice for the Classics
Luke Combs has built his career on an appreciation for country’s greats, from Keith Whitley to George Strait and Randy Travis. His love for traditional country sets him apart in today’s pop-driven world. While others have covered Don’t Close Your Eyes, Combs’ rendition feels effortless, as if he’s been singing it in smoky bars long before mainstream success found him.
And if you watch the video through to the end, you’ll see Combs’ humor—a glimpse of the personality that makes him as genuine as the music he plays. Despite delivering a powerful ballad, Combs doesn’t take himself too seriously.
A Keeper of the Country Music Tradition
Luke Combs continues to bring story-driven, heartfelt country music to today’s audiences. With every song he covers and every performance, he proves that he’s not just another artist with a guitar—he’s a keeper of country music’s soul. His take on Don’t Close Your Eyes serves as a reminder of the powerful connection between the legends who paved the way and the new artists who carry their torch.
Check out the video for yourself, and hear why Combs’ rendition of this Keith Whitley classic is worth every second.