378. 'Hold Me Close', by David Essex | The UK Number Ones Blog

About the Song

In the realm of music, certain melodies possess an uncanny ability to transport us back to specific moments in our lives. They become intertwined with our memories, evoking a sense of nostalgia and warmth. “Hold Me Close”, the iconic ballad by the English singer-songwriter David Essex, is undoubtedly one such masterpiece. Released in 1975, this enchanting tune quickly ascended the charts, capturing the hearts of millions worldwide. Its enduring popularity has solidified its place as a cherished classic, resonating with audiences across generations.

David Essex, a name synonymous with British pop music of the 1970s, gifted us with a treasure trove of memorable hits. His captivating stage presence and soulful voice endeared him to fans far and wide. “Hold Me Close” stands out as a testament to his artistry, showcasing his ability to craft songs that are both melodically captivating and emotionally resonant.

The magic of “Hold Me Close” lies in its simplicity and sincerity. The lyrics, penned by Essex himself, speak of love, longing, and the desire for closeness. They paint a vivid picture of a tender embrace, a moment of solace and connection. The gentle melody, coupled with Essex’s heartfelt vocals, further amplifies the emotional depth of the song. It’s a musical embrace that wraps around you, evoking feelings of comfort and affection.

“Hold Me Close” is more than just a song; it’s an experience. It’s a journey back to a time when life seemed simpler, when love was pure and unadulterated. It’s a reminder of the power of music to touch our souls and evoke emotions that words often fail to capture. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer to David Essex’s repertoire, “Hold Me Close” is a song that will undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on your heart.

So, sit back, close your eyes, and let the enchanting melody of “Hold Me Close” transport you to a place where love reigns supreme. Let David Essex’s soulful voice serenade you, reminding you of the beauty of human connection and the power of a simple embrace.David Essex HAND SIGNED 8x10 Photo Autograph, Rock On, Hold Me Close,  Winter's | eBay

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Lyrics: Hold Me Close

Hold, me close don’t let me go, oh no
I, yes I love you and I think that you know
Do you ya know
With your love light shining
Every cloud’s got a silver, lining
So hold, me close don’t let me go

Hold, me close don’t let me go, oh no
You and me, yes our love it will stoppa the show
Do you know
With your love light shining clearly
Its so good to have a yer, near me
So hold, me close don’t let me go

And if that road get weary
Oh I love you
Waiting here if you need me
Coz I love the things that you do

So hold, me close don’t let me go, oh no
You see I, yes I love you and I think that you know
Do you know
With your love light shining
Every cloud’s got a silver, lining
So hold, me close don’t let me go

And if that road gets tougher
Oh I love you
No I’ll never let you suffer
Coz I love the things that you do

So hold me close don’t let me go, oh no
You and me, yes our love it will grow and grow
Do you know
With your love light shining
Every cloud’s has a silver, lining
So hold, me close
Hold, me closer

Hold me close, don’t let, me, Go

Hold me close
Closer girl
Hold me close
Closer yeah

You Missed

For Vince Gill, the memory of singing with Dolly Parton came down to their final note together at the 1995 CMA Awards. Thirty-one years later, on the day she died, he shared that performance again. “We are all crushed here at our house,” he wrote. He called the closing note of their duet one of the most beautiful sounds he had ever heard. Their recording of “I Will Always Love You” began with Dolly’s album *Something Special*. That summer, she revisited three of her classics, including the farewell she had written for Porter Wagoner in 1973. It had already topped the country chart twice in her own voice, and Whitney Houston’s 1992 recording had brought it to listeners worldwide. For this version, Dolly invited Vince to join her. They performed it on the Grand Ole Opry on August 26, 1995, during a TNN broadcast. Radio programmers began playing the duet before Columbia officially issued it as a single. That unsolicited airplay carried it onto Billboard’s country chart at No. 53. On October 4, they sang it again at the CMA Awards. Vince, then 38, was hosting the broadcast at the Grand Ole Opry House. He stepped away from those duties to sing beside the woman who had written the song when he was sixteen. As the performance ended, their voices met on one sustained note. Decades later, that was the moment he singled out. Released as a single that November, the duet reached No. 15, received a Grammy nomination and won the 1996 CMA award for Vocal Event of the Year. But Vince’s remembrance centered on what he had heard standing beside her. Dolly died in Nashville on August 25, 2026, at 80, after a brief battle with cancer. Two days later, Vince appeared at the Midland Theatre in Kansas City. He told the audience how deeply his family was hurting, then began “I Will Always Love You.” This time, he sang it alone. Fan footage captured him struggling with his emotions throughout the performance. When he stepped back to compose himself, people in the audience carried the words. Musicians behind him wiped their eyes. He reached the closing note without Dolly’s voice beside his. After finishing, he moved away from the microphone, placed a hand over his chest and lowered his head.