About the song
Bobbie Gentry’s “Son of a Preacher Man” is a timeless classic that has captivated audiences for decades. Released in 1968, the song quickly became a chart-topper and a cultural phenomenon. Its catchy melody, soulful vocals, and evocative lyrics have solidified its place in the annals of popular music.
Gentry, a talented singer-songwriter, penned the song herself, drawing inspiration from her own life experiences. The narrative unfolds from the perspective of a woman who finds herself drawn to a man who is the son of a preacher. This intriguing premise sets the stage for a tale of forbidden love, temptation, and the complexities of faith.
The song begins with a haunting organ intro that immediately sets a mysterious and seductive tone. Gentry’s vocals are smooth and sultry, as she croons about the allure of the preacher’s son. Her delivery is both vulnerable and confident, conveying a sense of longing and desire. The lyrics are filled with vivid imagery and poetic language, painting a picture of a passionate and forbidden romance.
The chorus is particularly memorable, with Gentry repeating the lines “Son of a preacher man, you got me goin’ crazy” in a hypnotic and infectious manner. The phrase has become synonymous with the song, capturing its essence and resonating with listeners.
Throughout the song, Gentry explores themes of temptation, sin, and the conflict between religious beliefs and personal desires. The preacher’s son becomes a symbol of forbidden fruit, a man who embodies both the allure of the forbidden and the potential for salvation. The song’s ambiguity allows listeners to interpret the narrative in their own way, making it a truly enduring piece of music.
“Son of a Preacher Man” is more than just a catchy pop song; it is a work of art that continues to resonate with audiences of all ages. Its timeless appeal lies in its ability to evoke emotions, tell a compelling story, and transcend musical genres. Whether you’re a fan of classic soul or simply appreciate great songwriting, this song is a must-listen.
Video
Lyrics
Billy-Ray was a Preacher’s son,
And when his daddy would visit he’d come along,
When they gathered round and started talking,
Cousin Billy would take me walking,
Through the back yard we’d go walking,
Then he’d look into my eyes,
Lord knows to my surprise:
The only one who could ever reach me,
Was the son of a preacher man,
The only boy who could ever teach me,
Was the son of a preacher man,
Yes he was, he was, oh yes he was.
Being good isn’t always easy,
No matter how hard I tried,
When he started sweet talking to me,
he’d come tell me everything is alright,
he’d kiss and tell me everything is alright,
Can I get away again tonight?.
The only one who could ever reach me,
Was the son of a preacher man,
The only boy who could ever teach me,
Was the son of a preacher man,
Yes he was, he was, oh yes he was.
How well I remember,
The look that was in his eyes,
Stealing kisses from me on the sly,
Taking time to make time,
Telling me that he’s all mine,
Learning from each others knowing,
Looking to see how much we’d grown.
The only one who could ever reach me,
Was the son of a preacher man,
The only boy who could ever teach me,
Was the son of a preacher man,
Yes he was, he was, oh yes he was.