"Followed Closely by My Teardrops" is a song written by Paul Davis and Fred Tobias. It was originally recorded by American country singer–songwriter Hank Locklin. In 1964, it was released as a single and became a major hit on the American country chart that year.
Background, release and chart performance
In 1960, Hank Locklin had the biggest hit single of his career with the song "Please Help Me, I'm Falling." The song became his second to top the country charts and also crossed over into the pop market, becoming a top ten hit there. Its success elevated Locklin's career and he had further fits after the single. These further hits included "One Step Ahead of My Past," "We're Gonna Go Fishin'" and "Followed Closely by My Teardrops." The track was composed by Paul Evans and Fred Tobias. The song was recorded on March 15, 1963 at the RCA Victor Studio, located in Nashville, Tennessee. It was produced by Chet Atkins.
"Happy Journey" was released as a single in February 1964 on RCA Victor Records. The single was released as a seven-inch RPM record, containing "You Never Want to Love Me" on its B-side. The song spent a total of 17 weeks on the Billboard Hot Country and Western Sides chart, peaking at number 15 in May 1964. The song was not issued on a studio album of Locklin's upon its initial release. It was first issued on his 1970 compilation, Candy Kisses.
Track listing
7 inch vinyl single
"Followed Closely by My Teardrops" – 2:10
"You Never Want to Love Me" – 2:24
Chart performance
References
1964 singles
1964 songs
Hank Locklin songs
RCA Victor singles
Song recordings produced by Chet Atkins
Songs written by Paul Evans (musician) Songs written by Fred Tobias