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Introduction
Conway Twitty’s 1973 hit “You’ve Never Been This Far Before” stands as one of country music’s most sensuous and boundary-pushing singles. Released in July 1973, it not only topped the Billboard Hot Country chart for three weeks but also crossed over into the pop Top 40—an unusual feat for Twitty and for country music at the time. The song’s intimate lyrics sparked controversy and even radio bans, yet its warm melody and Twitty’s velvet tenor made it impossible to ignore. Below, we explore the song’s origins, its emotional resonance, and why it still captivates listeners today.
“You’ve Never Been This Far Before” was written and recorded by Conway Twitty and released on July 2, 1973, as the title track of his album of the same name . Produced by Owen Bradley at Bradley’s Barn in Mount Juliet, Tennessee, the recording session on April 4, 1973, featured top Nashville session musicians such as Harold Bradley on six-string electric bass and Hargus “Pig” Robbins on piano .
Despite—or perhaps because of—its frank sensuality, the song became Twitty’s tenth No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, where it remained for three weeks and spent 16 weeks total on the chart. It also peaked at No. 22 on the Billboard Hot 100, marking Twitty’s only entry into the pop Top 40 . At the time of its release, some radio stations banned the track due to lyrics considered overly sexual, a testament to how boldly the song pushed country-music norms
What makes “You’ve Never Been This Far Before” special is its blend of romantic intimacy and melodic warmth. Twitty’s lyrics explore a moment of shared vulnerability—inviting a partner to experience love in a deeper way than ever before. Lines like “I don’t know what I’m saying, but I’m feeling so much more” create a sense of breathless immediacy that still resonates . The gentle steel-guitar licks and Twitty’s tender delivery turn what could be a steamy confession into a heartfelt plea, making listeners feel both comforted and exhilarated.
The song’s crossover success helped pave the way for future country-pop ballads, demonstrating that audiences were ready for more emotionally direct material. Its willingness to address adult themes influenced artists from both country and pop spheres. Decades later, “You’ve Never Been This Far Before” remains a staple on classic-country playlists and a favorite among fans who appreciate Twitty’s ability to marry sensuality with sincerity
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Lyrics
I can almost hear the stillness
As it yields to the sound of your heart beating
I can almost hear the echo
Of the thoughts that I know you must be thinking
And I can feel your body tremble
As you wonder what this moment holds in store
And as I put my arms around you
I can tell you’ve never been this far before
I don’t know what I’m saying
As my trembling fingers touch forbidden places
I only know that I’ve waited
For so long for the chance that we are taking
Well I don’t know and I don’t care
What made you tell him you don’t love him anymore
And as I taste your tender kisses
I can tell you’ve never been this far before
And as I take the love you’re giveing
I can feel the tension building in your mind
And you’re wondering if tomorrow
I’ll still love you like I’m loving you tonight
You have no way of knowing
Tonight will only make me love you more
And I hope that you’ll believe me
‘Cause I know you’ve never been this far before