“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
Imagine waking up to the soft rays of sunlight filtering through the window, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee in the air, and the gentle strumming of a guitar playing a tune that just makes you want to smile. That’s the feeling Charlie Pride’s iconic song “Kiss an Angel Good Morning” brings to mind. It’s a timeless reminder to appreciate life’s simple moments. A song that continues to resonate with listeners decades after its release, this track encapsulates the magic of country music from a golden era.
About The Composition
- Title: Kiss an Angel Good Morning
- Composer: Ben Peters
- Premiere Date: Released in October 1971
- Album: From the album Charley Pride Sings Heart Songs
- Genre: Country
Background
“Kiss an Angel Good Morning” was written by the talented Ben Peters, who had already established himself as a skilled songwriter in the country music scene. Charley Pride, a trailblazer in the country genre, brought the song to life with his smooth baritone voice. Released in 1971 as part of the album Charley Pride Sings Heart Songs, the track quickly soared to the top of the charts. It became Pride’s signature song, achieving crossover success by not only reaching No. 1 on the country charts but also breaking into the Billboard Hot 100.
The song’s inspiration came from a conversation Ben Peters had with his wife, where they discussed the secret to a happy marriage. The simple advice he offered – to kiss your partner good morning every day – became the heart of the song’s lyrics. The track’s success was immediate, and it earned Pride a Grammy Award in 1972 for Best Male Country Vocal Performance, solidifying his status as one of country music’s greats.
Musical Style
“Kiss an Angel Good Morning” is a perfect blend of classic country elements with a catchy, uplifting rhythm. The song opens with an infectious guitar riff that sets a lively tone. Pride’s warm, resonant voice effortlessly carries the melody, supported by a tight arrangement of drums, bass, and guitars that exemplify the traditional country sound of the early ’70s.
The song’s structure is straightforward, with its verse-chorus form making it instantly memorable. It’s the simplicity and sincerity of both the melody and the lyrics that make this song so beloved. Pride’s vocal delivery is relaxed yet confident, capturing the essence of a joyful, carefree love.
Lyrics Analysis
The lyrics tell a heartwarming story about the key to a happy life: love and appreciation. The chorus, “Kiss an angel good morning / And love her like the devil when you get back home,” became an iconic line that resonated with listeners. The song’s message is simple yet profound, celebrating the small gestures of love that strengthen relationships. It’s a testament to the power of expressing affection and cherishing the ones we hold dear.
Performance History
Over the years, “Kiss an Angel Good Morning” has been performed by numerous artists, but no rendition comes close to Charley Pride’s original version. The song became a staple in Pride’s live performances, and he often credited it with propelling his career to new heights. Notably, the song also crossed over to the pop charts, which was a significant achievement for a country artist at that time, especially for an African-American artist in a genre that was predominantly white.
Cultural Impact
The song’s success was not just confined to the country music world. Its catchy, feel-good vibe helped it gain popularity in mainstream pop culture. “Kiss an Angel Good Morning” has been featured in various TV shows, commercials, and even covered by artists from different genres, showcasing its timeless appeal.
Charley Pride’s success with this song also played a crucial role in breaking down racial barriers in country music. He became one of the most successful African-American artists in the genre, and this song was a significant milestone in his career, leading to widespread recognition and respect in the music industry.
Legacy
Over fifty years since its release, “Kiss an Angel Good Morning” remains a beloved classic that continues to touch the hearts of country music fans. Its legacy lives on as a symbol of Charley Pride’s incredible talent and the power of music to bring joy and positivity to people’s lives. The song is still played on country radio, and its timeless message of love and appreciation makes it just as relevant today as it was in 1971.
Conclusion
Listening to “Kiss an Angel Good Morning” is like receiving a little nugget of wisdom wrapped in a melody that sticks with you long after the music stops. It’s a reminder of the importance of starting each day with love and kindness. Whether you’re a long-time country fan or new to Charley Pride’s music, this song is a must-listen. If you’re looking to experience it for yourself, I highly recommend finding a live performance or listening to the original album recording – it’s sure to brighten your day.
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Lyrics
… When ever I chance to meet, old friends on the street
They wonder how does a man get to be this way
Always got a smiling face, anytime and any place
And every time they ask me why I just smile and say
… ‘Cause you’ve got to kiss an angel good morning
And let her know you think about her when you’re gone
Kiss an angel good morning
And love her like the devil when you get back home
… Though people may try to guess, the secret of our happiness
But some of them never learn it’s a simple thing
The secret I’ma speaking of, is a woman and a man in love
And the answer is in this song that I always sing
… ‘Cause you’ve got to kiss an angel good morning
And let her know you think about her when you’re gone
Kiss an angel good morning
And love her like the devil when you get back home
… Kiss an angel good morning
And let her know you think about her when you’re gone
Kiss an angel good morning
And love her like the devil when you get back home