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‘Talk Back Trembling Lips’ – Johnny Tillotson

Johnny Tillotson Discography | Discogs

About the Song

In the realm of pop music, there are songs that make you tap your feet, songs that tug at your heartstrings, and then there are songs that do both, leaving an indelible mark on your soul. “Talk Back Trembling Lips” by the legendary Johnny Tillotson is one such gem, a timeless ballad that has captivated audiences for generations.

Released in 1960, “Talk Back Trembling Lips” soared to the top of the charts, cementing Tillotson’s status as a pop icon. The song’s enduring popularity lies in its poignant lyrics and Tillotson’s heartfelt delivery, weaving a tale of lost love and unwavering hope that resonates deeply with listeners.

The song opens with a gentle piano melody, setting the stage for Tillotson’s emotive vocals. He paints a vivid picture of a love gone astray, his voice trembling with raw emotion as he sings of “trembling lips that once would speak of love” now “silent and so cold.”

The lyrics delve into the depths of heartbreak, capturing the pain of a love that has faded away. Tillotson’s voice cracks with emotion as he laments the loss of his beloved, his words echoing the universal ache of a broken heart.

Despite the overwhelming sadness, a glimmer of hope emerges amidst the despair. The singer refuses to give up on the possibility of rekindling the lost love, pleading with his former lover to “talk back trembling lips” and rekindle the flame that once burned so brightly.

The bridge offers a momentary respite from the heartache, with a shift in tempo and a touch of optimism. Tillotson’s voice gains strength as he sings of “memories that still linger on” and the “hope that someday you’ll return to me.”

The song concludes on a bittersweet note, with the singer acknowledging the pain of the past while clinging to the hope of a brighter future. Tillotson’s voice trails off on the final line, leaving the listener with a lingering sense of longing and the enduring power of love.

“Talk Back Trembling Lips” is a timeless classic that continues to touch hearts and inspire hope. Johnny Tillotson’s masterful performance and the song’s poignant lyrics have solidified its place in the pantheon of great ballads, ensuring that its message of love and resilience will continue to resonate for generations to come.

Johnny Tillotson Interview Video - Official Johnny Tillotson Video - YouTube

Video 

Lyrics: Talk Back Trembling Lips

Talk back trembling lips
Shaky legs don’t just stand there
Don’t let her know that she’s getting through to to you
Talk back trembling lips
Burning eyes don’t start crying
Heart don’t let her know that your breaking in two

Every day our love’s a battle royal
Dear it seems that fighting is all we do
But if I let you know how much I love you
You’ll do things to me you shouldn’t do

So talk back trembling lips
Shaky legs don’t just stand there
Don’t let her know that she’s getting through to to you
Talk back trembling lips
Burning eyes don’t start crying
Heart don’t let her know that your breaking in two

Every time you up and hurt my feelings
I pretend it couldn’t matter less
I’m just hiding all of my emotions
Behind my broken heart I guess

So talk back trembling lips
Shaky legs don’t just stand there
Don’t let her know that she’s getting through to to you
Talk back trembling lips
Burning eyes don’t start crying
Heart don’t let her know that your breaking in two
Heart don’t let her know that your breaking in two

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