“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
There’s something timeless about a song that captures the feeling of longing and uncertainty so perfectly. Charley Pride’s “Is Anybody Goin’ To San Antone?” is one of those songs that takes you on a journey—not just through the lyrics, but through the emotions of a man searching for solace and direction. It’s a song that, despite being released decades ago, still resonates with listeners today, making it a country classic that endures.
About The Composition
- Title: Is Anybody Goin’ To San Antone?
- Composer: Glen Martin (lyrics), Dave Kirby (music)
- Premiere Date: 1970
- Album: Charley Pride Sings Heart Songs
- Genre: Country
Background:
“Is Anybody Goin’ To San Antone?” was written by Glen Martin and Dave Kirby, two stalwarts of the country music scene. It was recorded and released by Charley Pride in 1970, and it quickly became one of his most iconic hits. The song is a prime example of the style that helped define Pride’s career: a blend of traditional country with soulful balladry. At the time of its release, Pride was already an established name in country music, but this track propelled him to even greater heights, earning him widespread recognition for his distinctive voice and ability to evoke emotion through his music.
The song tells the story of a man who’s on a desperate search to find peace after a difficult breakup. His journey leads him to San Antonio, Texas, a symbolic place representing both a literal destination and a metaphor for the emotional healing he seeks. The poignant lyrics and somber melody set a tone of reflection and vulnerability, resonating with anyone who’s experienced heartache. Pride’s delivery is effortless yet deeply moving, and the song stands as a hallmark of his ability to connect with his audience.
Musical Style
“Is Anybody Goin’ To San Antone?” features a straightforward country arrangement, with acoustic guitar, fiddle, and steel guitar providing a rich, authentic backdrop to Pride’s soulful vocals. The song is in a 4/4 time signature, giving it a steady, walking pace that mirrors the journey of the protagonist. The instrumental arrangement is classic country—nothing too flashy, but everything perfectly placed to complement the narrative. The steel guitar’s mournful tone is particularly effective in accentuating the song’s theme of longing, while the fiddle adds a touch of traditional country warmth.
The structure of the song is simple but effective: verses that set up the protagonist’s emotional state, a chorus that echoes the central question of the song, and a brief instrumental break that provides space for reflection. This straightforward approach allows the lyrics to shine, with the music serving as an emotional undertone rather than drawing attention away from the song’s message.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrics of “Is Anybody Goin’ To San Antone?” are some of the most heartfelt in Charley Pride’s catalog. The protagonist is asking a simple yet poignant question: is anyone going to San Antone? He hopes that someone will be able to take him to this distant city, not just as a physical destination, but as a place where he might find peace and closure after a painful breakup. The repeated question “Is anybody goin’ to San Antone?” becomes both a literal inquiry and a symbol of emotional longing.
The lyrics convey themes of loneliness, longing, and emotional isolation, resonating deeply with anyone who has experienced the pain of separation or the disorienting feeling of searching for answers. The song’s simplicity allows it to speak directly to the listener, leaving space for personal interpretation.
Performance History
Since its release, “Is Anybody Goin’ To San Antone?” has become one of Charley Pride’s signature songs. It topped the country charts, further solidifying his place in country music history. The song has been widely covered by artists across the country music genre and has been performed at countless live shows. Over time, it has remained a staple in Pride’s performances, with its deeply emotional lyrics and simple, yet powerful melody making it a favorite among fans.
In addition to being a hit in the United States, the song also found success internationally, reinforcing Pride’s reputation as a global ambassador for country music.
Cultural Impact
“Is Anybody Goin’ To San Antone?” is more than just a country song; it has embedded itself into the cultural fabric of American music. It represents the broader themes of loss, hope, and the search for redemption that many people can relate to, making it an enduring classic. In addition, the song’s influence extends beyond the country genre. It has been included in numerous collections of American popular music and continues to be appreciated by new generations of listeners.
The song has also been featured in various films, TV shows, and documentaries, cementing its status as a part of the American musical legacy. Its simple, yet evocative storytelling continues to inspire artists and songwriters to this day.
Legacy
Charley Pride’s “Is Anybody Goin’ To San Antone?” continues to stand the test of time. For many, it remains one of the quintessential country songs of the 1970s, a decade that saw a wave of new country stars emerging. For Pride, the song represents both his enduring legacy and his ability to craft songs that speak to the heart.
Today, Pride’s music is celebrated not just for its musicality, but for the way it transcended the racial barriers of the time, allowing him to become one of the most beloved country artists in history. “Is Anybody Goin’ To San Antone?” is one of those songs that will never fade, and its emotional core will continue to resonate with anyone who hears it.
Conclusion
Charley Pride’s “Is Anybody Goin’ To San Antone?” is a song that speaks to the heart of the human experience. With its simple, poignant lyrics and timeless melody, it remains a standout in Pride’s catalog and an enduring piece of country music history. If you’ve never listened to it, I highly recommend you do—preferably while sitting back, letting the song take you on its emotional journey. It’s a song that stays with you long after the last note fades.
Video
Lyrics
Rain drippin’ off the brim of my hat
It sure is cold today
Here I am walkin’ down 66
Wish she hadn’t done me that way
Sleepin’ under a table in a roadside park
A man could wake up dead
But it sure seems warmer than it did
Sleepin’ in our king-sized bed
Is anybody goin’ to San Antone
Or Phoenix, Arizona?
Any place is alright as long as I
Can forget I’ve ever known her
Wind whippin’ down the neck of my shirt
Like I ain’t got nothin’ on
But I’d rather fight the wind and rain
Than what I’ve been fightin’ at home
Yonder comes a truck with the U.S. Mail
People writin’ letters back home
Tomorrow, she’ll probably want me back
But I’ll still be just as gone
Is anybody goin’ to San Antone
Or Phoenix, Arizona?
Any place is alright as long as I
Can forget I’ve ever known her