About the song
“Skeeter Davis – Don’t Let Me Cross Over” is a poignant country classic that resonates with its heartfelt lyrics and soulful delivery. Skeeter Davis, renowned for her emotive vocal style and enduring career in country music, interprets this song with a depth of emotion that captures the essence of love and longing.
Written by Penny Jay, “Don’t Let Me Cross Over” was first released in 1962 as a duet between Skeeter Davis and Jim Reeves. It quickly ascended the country music charts, reaching number two on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and solidifying its place as a timeless duet in the genre’s history. The song’s narrative explores the vulnerability of temptation and the plea for fidelity in a relationship, themes that resonate universally across generations.
Skeeter Davis, born Mary Frances Penick, was not only a gifted vocalist but also a pioneer for women in country music during the 1950s and 1960s. Her solo career and collaborations, including notable duets like “Don’t Let Me Cross Over,” earned her acclaim and a dedicated fan base worldwide. The song itself became a signature piece in her repertoire, showcasing her ability to convey raw emotion and storytelling through music.
The track was featured on the album “Singin’ in the Summer Sun,” among other compilations, and remains a cherished part of Skeeter Davis’s musical legacy. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the timeless appeal of heartfelt lyrics, evocative melodies, and the unmistakable vocal prowess of Skeeter Davis.
“Don’t Let Me Cross Over” continues to be celebrated for its authenticity and emotional resonance, making it a standout in the rich tapestry of country music ballads. Whether revisiting nostalgic memories or discovering its beauty for the first time, listeners are drawn to its evocative storytelling and the timeless voice of Skeeter Davis, solidifying its place as a classic in the country music canon.
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Lyrics
I’m tempted my darling to steal you away
Don’t let me cross over, stay out of my way
You know that I love you and I’m not the cheating kind
Don’t let me cross over love’s cheating line
Don’t let me cross over love’s cheating line
You belong to another, you can never be mine
I know one step closer would be heaven divine
Don’t let me cross over love’s cheating line
I’ve tried to forget you but what else can I do
When your eyes keep saying that you love me too
I know if I lose you, not a dream would I have left
I don’t want to cheat, dear, but I can’t help myself
Don’t let me cross over love’s cheating line
You belong to another, you can never be mine
I know one step closer would be heaven divine
Don’t let me cross over love’s cheating line