Charley Pride – Kiss an Angel Good Mornin’

Charley Pride stands tall in the annals of country music. His smooth baritone voice and heartfelt delivery resonated with audiences for decades, shattering racial barriers and leaving an undeniable mark on the genre. Among his vast collection of hits, none shines brighter than “Kiss an Angel Good Mornin'”, a song that transcended genre boundaries and became a million-selling crossover phenomenon.

Background

Released in 1971, “Kiss an Angel Good Mornin'” arrived on the heels of Pride’s growing success. It served as the lead single for his album “Charley Pride Sings Heart Songs” and marked a turning point in his career. The song captured the essence of “countrypolitan,” a subgenre that blended country music with elements of pop music. This innovative approach, coupled with Pride’s captivating vocals, propelled the song to the top of the charts.

“Kiss an Angel Good Mornin'” spent five weeks at number one on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, solidifying Pride’s position as a country music superstar. But the song’s impact extended far beyond the country genre. It reached number 21 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and landed in the Top Ten of the Adult Contemporary charts, signifying its widespread appeal.

The song’s narrative follows a man expressing his deep affection for his loved one. The lyrics, penned by Ben Peters, are filled with tender imagery and heartfelt metaphors. The opening line, “I wake up smilin’, the sun peeks in,” sets the tone for a song overflowing with love and appreciation. The title itself, “Kiss an Angel Good Mornin'”, evokes a sense of pure devotion, painting a picture of a love so precious it equates to a kiss bestowed upon an angelic being.

The musical arrangement of “Kiss an Angel Good Mornin'” perfectly complements the romantic lyrics. A gentle acoustic guitar sets the foundation, while soft strings and subtle piano flourishes add depth and emotion. Pride’s voice takes center stage, soaring effortlessly as he delivers each line with sincerity and warmth.

“Kiss an Angel Good Mornin'” has become a timeless classic, a staple on country radio playlists and a favorite for weddings and romantic occasions. Its enduring popularity lies in its simplicity, its heartfelt message of love, and Pride’s masterful vocal performance. The song not only cemented Pride’s status as a country music icon but also served as a gateway drug for many listeners, introducing them to the captivating world of country music.

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Here are some additional details about the song:

• The song was written by Ben Peters.
• It was released in 1971 on Atlantic Records.
• The song reached number one on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and number 21 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.