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Country music icon Keith Whitley’s legacy continues to resonate, even decades after his untimely death. Today marks the 36th anniversary of his posthumous No. 1 hit, “I Wonder Do You Think of Me.” Released just months after his passing in May 1989, the song topped the charts on September 9, 1989, solidifying Whitley’s place as a country music legend.
Whitley’s music remains popular, boasting over 1.8 million monthly listeners on Spotify. His most streamed tracks include classics like “When You Say Nothing at All,” “Don’t Close Your Eyes,” and “I’m No Stranger to the Rain,” all from his acclaimed album Don’t Close Your Eyes. Fans also continue to enjoy hits like “I’m Over You” and “Miami, My Amy.”
In 2022, Whitley received a well-deserved honor: induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame. His influence can also be heard in contemporary country music, with artists like Morgan Wallen paying tribute through songs like “Keith Whitley” on his 2023 album One Thing At A Time.
Though Whitley released only two studio albums during his lifetime, L.A. to Miami (1985) and Don’t Close Your Eyes (1988), his musical catalog continued to grow after his passing. Three posthumous albums, I Wonder Do You Think of Me (1989), Wherever You Are Tonight (1995), and Sad Songs & Waltzes (2000), further cemented his legacy.