Country Music

Classic Country Music Hits

Country Music

Charley Pride – Kiss an Angel Good Mornin’

“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”

Introduction

The first time I heard Charley Pride’s “Kiss an Angel Good Mornin’,” I was driving down a quiet country road, the sun casting a golden hue over the fields. The song’s joyful melody and heartfelt lyrics instantly lifted my spirits, reminding me of the simple yet profound gestures that keep love alive.

About The Composition

  • Title: Kiss an Angel Good Mornin’
  • Composer: Ben Peters
  • Premiere Date: October 1971
  • Album: The Best of Charley Pride, Volume II
  • Genre: Country

Background

“Kiss an Angel Good Mornin'” was written by renowned songwriter Ben Peters and recorded by American country music artist Charley Pride. Released in October 1971 as the lead single from his compilation album The Best of Charley Pride, Volume II, the song quickly soared to the top of the US country charts. It became Pride’s eighth number-one hit and notably crossed over to the pop charts, peaking at number 21 on the Billboard Hot 100—his highest-ranking pop single.

During a time when country music was evolving and reaching broader audiences, Pride’s rendition resonated with many for its universal message and catchy tune. The early ’70s marked a significant period in Pride’s career, solidifying his place as one of the few African American artists to achieve substantial success in country music, a genre traditionally dominated by white artists.

Musical Style

The song is characterized by its upbeat tempo and classic country instrumentation, featuring acoustic guitars, steel guitar accents, and a steady rhythm section. Pride’s smooth and rich baritone voice delivers the melody with warmth and sincerity. The arrangement is straightforward, allowing the song’s message to take center stage without unnecessary embellishments. Its blend of traditional country elements with a pop sensibility contributed to its widespread appeal.

Lyrics

Without quoting the lyrics directly, the song conveys the importance of expressing love through simple daily gestures—specifically, starting each day by showing affection to one’s partner. It highlights how these small acts can have a profound impact on personal happiness and the strength of a relationship. The themes are relatable and timeless, touching on love, devotion, and the joy that comes from nurturing personal connections.

Performance History

Since its debut, “Kiss an Angel Good Mornin'” has become one of Charley Pride’s signature songs. It has been performed at countless concerts and has been covered by various artists across different genres, demonstrating its enduring popularity. The song’s success helped elevate Pride’s career, leading to numerous awards and recognition within the music industry.

Cultural Impact

The song played a significant role in breaking racial barriers within country music. Pride’s success with this hit challenged the industry’s norms and opened doors for future artists of diverse backgrounds. Moreover, its crossover into the pop charts exemplified the shifting musical landscape of the time, where genre lines were becoming more fluid. The song has also been featured in films and television shows, further cementing its place in popular culture.

Legacy

Decades later, “Kiss an Angel Good Mornin'” remains a beloved classic in the country music canon. Its message about the power of love and simple affectionate gestures continues to resonate with listeners today. The song stands as a testament to Charley Pride’s influential career and his contributions to diversifying and shaping the genre.

Conclusion

Reflecting on this timeless piece, “Kiss an Angel Good Mornin'” reminds us of the enduring power of love and the importance of cherishing our relationships. Its cheerful melody and heartfelt message have a way of brightening one’s day. I highly recommend giving it a listen—perhaps it will inspire you to start your mornings with a little more affection. For those interested, Charley Pride’s original recording captures the song’s essence beautifully, and exploring live performances can offer an even deeper appreciation of this classic

Video

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

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