About the song
Bobbie Gentry’s rendition of “Son Of A Preacher Man” stands as a timeless gem in the realm of Southern soul and country music. Originally written by John Hurley and Ronnie Wilkins, the song was first made famous by Dusty Springfield in 1968, but Gentry’s interpretation added a distinct flavor that resonated deeply with listeners.
Released as part of her 1969 album “Touch ‘Em with Love,” Gentry’s version captivated audiences with its soulful blend of country twang and emotive storytelling. The song tells the tale of a young man’s romantic yearning for the preacher’s son, exploring themes of forbidden love and the allure of the unattainable.
Bobbie Gentry, born Roberta Lee Streeter in 1944, emerged as a prominent figure in the late 1960s music scene, known for her evocative voice and narrative songwriting style. “Son Of A Preacher Man” showcased her ability to infuse country music with elements of soul and blues, creating a sound that was uniquely her own.
Throughout her career, Gentry achieved notable success with songs like “Ode to Billie Joe,” which reached the top of the charts in 1967. Her music often delved into Southern themes and characters, painting vivid portraits of life in rural America.
“Son Of A Preacher Man” not only solidified Gentry’s reputation as a versatile artist but also highlighted her talent for interpreting and reimagining classic songs with her distinctive voice. The track continues to be celebrated for its timeless appeal and remains a staple in playlists dedicated to the best of 1960s and 1970s music.
Bobbie Gentry’s rendition of “Son Of A Preacher Man” stands as a testament to her enduring influence on the country and soul music genres, showcasing her ability to weave together storytelling and musicality in a way that captivates audiences across generations. Her contribution to music continues to be cherished, with “Son Of A Preacher Man” remaining a standout piece in her illustrious discography.
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.