About the song
In the realm of country music, where male voices often dominated the airwaves, Kitty Wells emerged as a trailblazer with her groundbreaking song, “It Wasn’t God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels.” Released in 1952, this anthem challenged societal norms and paved the way for future female country stars.
The song, a response to Hank Thompson’s hit “The Wild Side of Life,” dared to shift the blame for infidelity from women to men. With a powerful and defiant message, Wells asserted that it was men’s unfaithfulness that led women astray, not a divine decree. This bold statement was a radical departure from the prevailing narratives of the time and instantly sparked controversy.
While the song faced initial backlash from conservative audiences and radio stations, it ultimately resonated with countless listeners who had long felt marginalized and blamed for societal ills. Wells’ anthem became a rallying cry for women seeking to reclaim their agency and challenge patriarchal double standards.
“It Wasn’t God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels” not only propelled Kitty Wells to stardom but also solidified her place as a pioneer in country music. Her success paved the way for other female artists, such as Dolly Parton, Patsy Cline, Loretta Lynn, and Tammy Wynette, who followed in her footsteps and continued to challenge gender stereotypes.
Beyond its cultural significance, the song’s enduring popularity can be attributed to its catchy melody and Wells’ powerful vocals. The song’s simple yet impactful lyrics resonated with audiences of all ages, making it a timeless classic.
Today, “It Wasn’t God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels” remains a cornerstone of country music history. It serves as a testament to Wells’ courage, talent, and unwavering belief in the power of music to challenge societal norms. As we celebrate this iconic song, let us remember the trailblazing spirit of Kitty Wells and her enduring legacy.
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Lyrics
As I sit here tonight, the jukebox’s playing
The tune about the wild side of life
As I listen to the words you are saying
It brings mem’ries when I was a trusting wife
It was’t God who made honky-tonk angels
As you said in the words of your song
Too many times married men think they’re still single
That has caused many a good girl to go wrong
It’s a shame that all the blame is on us women
It’s not true that only you men feel the same
From the start most every heart that’s ever broken
Was because there always was a man to blame
It was’t God who made honky-tonk angels
As you said in the words of your song
Too many times married men think they’re still single
That has caused many a good girl to go wrong