About the song
In the vast landscape of country music, some songs hold a special place. Charley Pride’s “Kiss an Angel Good Mornin'” is one such gem, a tune that transcended genre boundaries and etched itself into the hearts of listeners for over five decades. Released in October 1971, it wasn’t just the first single from his album “Charley Pride Sings Heart Songs,” it became a signature song for the legendary artist.
The song’s success wasn’t limited to the country charts, where it soared to number one, marking Pride’s eighth chart-topping hit. It achieved a feat no other Pride single could match, reaching the Top 40 on the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at number 21. Additionally, it graced the Adult Contemporary charts, further solidifying its widespread appeal.
But what is it about this song that resonated so deeply? The answer lies in its simple yet evocative lyricism. It paints a picture of a happy marriage, a man boasting about the secret to his enduring love. The secret? Waking up each morning to kiss “an angel,” a loving reference to his wife. Yet, there’s a playful twist. He also admits to “loving her like a devil,” implying a passionate and fiery side to their relationship. This playful contrast between angelic devotion and devilish desire is what makes the song so endearing.
“Kiss an Angel Good Mornin'” wasn’t just a hit for Pride; it became a country standard. Renowned artists like George Jones, Conway Twitty, and Alan Jackson all recorded their own versions, a testament to the song’s enduring charm. Even internationally, it found success, reaching the Top 10 in Sydney, Australia.
Even today, “Kiss an Angel Good Mornin'” continues to be a beloved country classic. It’s a song that celebrates love in all its complexities, a sweet reminder of the joys a happy marriage can bring. So, the next time you hear this iconic tune, take a moment to appreciate the simple yet powerful message it conveys: sometimes, the secret to a lasting love lies in a kiss shared with your own personal angel, even if a little devil lurks within.
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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