About the song
Let’s journey back to the heyday of country music, where heartfelt storytelling and soulful melodies reigned supreme. In this era, one song emerged as a timeless classic, capturing the essence of love and loss with its poignant lyrics and stirring vocals: “A Dear John Letter” by Skeeter Davis and Bobby Bare.
Released in 1965, “A Dear John Letter” quickly captured the hearts of listeners with its emotional tale of a love gone awry. Written by Billy Barton, Fuzzy Owen, and Lewis Talley, the song tells the story of a woman who, through a “Dear John” letter, informs her sweetheart that she’s found someone new while he’s away serving in the military.
Skeeter Davis and Bobby Bare’s heartfelt rendition of the song struck a chord with audiences, propelling it to the top of the country music charts. Its success was further solidified by its inclusion in Skeeter Davis’s album “Written by the Stars,” where it became a standout track.
Over the years, “A Dear John Letter” has remained a beloved classic, resonating with listeners of all ages. Its timeless themes of love, heartbreak, and resilience continue to strike a chord with audiences, making it a staple of country music playlists.
As you listen to “A Dear John Letter,” allow yourself to be transported to a time when country music spoke directly to the soul, and the voices of Skeeter Davis and Bobby Bare carried the weight of love’s triumphs and tribulations. Join generations of music lovers who have been moved by the timeless beauty of this unforgettable duet.
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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
He handed me a letter and I was just as happy as I could be
Cause the fighting was all over and the battles have all been won
But then I opened up the letter and that started dear John
Won’t you please send back my picture my husband wants it now
When I tell you who I’m wedding you won’t care dear anyhow
And it hurts me so to tell you that my love for you has gone
But tonight I wed your brother dear John
And tonight I wed another dear John