By 1968 Jones' chart performance had waned, and the main chart he had success with, was the Adult Contemporary chart.[5] The new single followed a period of declining pop chart performance for Jones,[6] but unlike most previous singles, completely missed the Cashbox charts.[7] "If You Ever Leave Me" was the first of eight singles that he released that year. It was produced by Ernie Altschuler and arranged by Marty Paich, like on his previous single "Live For Life".[8] A month later it was featured on his 1968 album, If You Ever leave Me. Notably, it was his second single release for RCA Victor, which he started recording for in 1967,[9] although he would still record for Kapp Records at the same time for a few years.[2]
"If You Ever Leave Me" was released as a seven-inch single in January 1968 by RCA Victor Records.[8] It was backed by another easy listening song written by duo Florence and Allen,[2] simply titled "Pretty" on the B-side,[8] which would be included on the same LP as "If You Ever Leave Me".[10]
The single received a positive critical reception. Record World put the single in its "Four Stars" singles section, saying that it is "Strong ballad material", noting that "Jack reads it with compelling voice and manner".[3] Billboard magazine reviewed the single on February 3, 1968, writing "Tony Hatch-Jackie Trent ballad material is beautifully interpreted by Jones with a top Marty Paich arrangement."[4]
The track debuted on the Billboard Hot 100 on February 17, 1968, remaining on the chart for two weeks with a peak position of number 92.[6] It became his last entry on the chart.[6] "If You Ever Leave Me" was ranked higher on the Billboard Easy Listening survey, reaching number 5 during a seven-week run on it.[5] On the Record World Up-Coming Singles chart the track peaked at number 107,[11] but was ranked on their Top-Non Rock survey as well, reaching number 3.[11]
7" vinyl single[8]
- "If You Ever Leave Me" – 2:37
- "Pretty" – 2:24
[3]