Earl Thomas Conley – That Was a Close One: The Story Behind a Classic Hit

Have you ever listened to a song and felt like it captured a moment of your life perfectly? “That Was a Close One” is one of those songs that truly resonates with listeners. With its heartfelt lyrics and timeless melody, it’s no wonder fans still love this track years after its release. But what inspired “That Was a Close One,” and how did it become one of Conley’s memorable hits? Let’s dive into the story of this classic track.

The Creation of “That Was a Close One”

Recorded in 1986 and released on March 30, 1987, “That Was a Close One” was written by Robert Byrne. The song was produced by Earl Thomas Conley himself Mark Wright and Nelson Larkin, who worked with Conley on many of his chart-topping records. It was included in Conley’s successful album, “Etc. Too Many Times,” which featured several other beloved songs by the country legend. “That Was a Close One,” quickly gained popularity and reached #1 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and #2 on Canadian RPM Country Tracks. This achievement added yet another hit to Conley’s growing list of chart-topping singles, cementing his influence in country music.

What Is “That Was a Close One” About?

The song is about a close call in a relationship—a moment when things almost ended, but love managed to pull through. Conley’s voice captures the raw emotion of this near-breakup, making listeners feel as if they’re right there with him, experiencing the ups and downs of love. With lyrics that reflect both fear and relief, the song tells a universal story that resonates deeply with anyone who’s had a relationship almost fall apart. It’s a song that shows how close love and heartbreak can be, sometimes only separated by a single moment.

This emotional theme is what makes “That Was a Close One” such a powerful song. Conley had a gift for telling stories through his music, and this track is one of his finest examples. It reminds listeners that sometimes love isn’t easy, but it’s worth fighting for.

Earl Thomas Conley: The Man Behind the Music

Earl Thomas Conley was a force in country music throughout the 1980s and early ’90s. Known for his unique voice and storytelling ability, Conley achieved 18 number-one hits on the country charts during his career, an impressive accomplishment that few artists can match. His other popular songs, such as “Holding Her and Loving You” and “What I’d Say,” also became chart-toppers, showcasing his consistent ability to connect with fans through relatable lyrics and powerful melodies.

Conley’s music was described as “thinking man’s country” because of the emotional depth and narrative quality of his songs. He had a way of expressing complex feelings in a simple, direct way, which is part of why his songs still resonate with fans today. “That Was a Close One” is a prime example of this style—it’s both relatable and introspective, capturing moments of vulnerability and strength.

“That Was a Close One” is more than just a song; it’s a piece of country music history. Conley’s contributions to the genre have left a lasting legacy, and this song is one of the many that show his talent and heart. His music, full of relatable experiences and deep emotion, continues to inspire artists and fans alike. If you’re a fan of country music, you owe it to yourself to explore more of Conley’s work and appreciate the impact he had on the genre.

Thanks for joining us on this look back at “That Was a Close One.” Be sure to check back for more stories behind your favorite country songs and artists!

COUNTRYPEDIA

Earl Thomas Conley – That Was a Close One Lyrics

I loved her because she was there
And I knew along that it wasn’t fair but I didn’t care
Then I got the hell out of there
That was a close one

I kept my freedom intact got rid of the hassle and rid of the flack yeah I cut me some slack
And I never thought I’d want it back
And that was a close one

That was a close one
And if I hadn’t of run she might have got away with my heart
So I played it smart
That was a close one
But I kept my cool never let down my guard
That was a close one

The winter of ’79 was so cold and lonely I found a good woman she took me inside
And I swear to God I really tried
And that was a close one

Will there ever be a love of my life when I’m out of my pride And out of my mind in the nick of time
And when the feeling in here is fine
That’s the close ones

That was a close one
And if I hadn’t of run she might have got away with my heart
My precious heart
That was a close one
But I kept my cool and never let down my guard
That was a close one
(whew)

That was a close one
I love her because she was there
That was a close one

That was a close one
Winter of ’79
That was a close one

That was a close one
She might have got away with my heart
That was a close one

GENIUS