About the song
“Angel of the Morning” is a classic pop song that has been captivating audiences for decades. Written by Chip Taylor in 1967, the song tells the story of a woman who is struggling to come to terms with her feelings for a man who has left her. The song’s poignant lyrics and soulful melody have resonated with listeners of all ages, making it a timeless piece of music.
The song became a hit in 1968 through a recording by Merrilee Rush, made that January at the American Sound Studio in Memphis, with Chips Moman and Tommy Cogbill producing. Rush had come to Memphis through the group she fronted, the Turnabouts, being the opening act for a Paul Revere and the Raiders tour. While in Memphis, the Raiders recorded the album Goin’ to Memphis at American Sound Studios, an association which led to Rush’s discovery by Tommy Cogbill, who had been hoping to find the right voice for “Angel of the Morning” — he had kept a tape of the demo of that song constantly in his pocket for several months.
Rush recorded the song, and the tracks which would fill out her Angel of the Morning album, with the American Sound house band, even though the single and the album were credited to the group Merrilee Rush & the Turnabouts.
The single version was released in February 1968, and reached the Top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 that June, peaking at No. 7, also reaching No. 1 in Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, and No. 4 in the Netherlands. The song earned Rush a Grammy nomination for Best Contemporary-Pop Vocal Performance, Female. Rush recorded a new version of the song for her 1977 eponymous album release. (Rush’s version of “Angel of the Morning” was featured on the soundtrack of the 1999 film Girl, Interrupted, set in 1967 and 1968, in which author-composer Chip Taylor’s niece Angelina Jolie had a starring role.)
“Angel of the Morning” is a beautiful and moving song that has stood the test of time. It is a testament to the power of music to connect with people on a deep emotional level. The song’s popularity is due in part to its relatable lyrics and its catchy melody. However, it is also a testament to the talent of Merrilee Rush and the American Sound house band. Rush’s soulful vocals bring the song to life, and the band’s backing is both energetic and sensitive.
“Angel of the Morning” is a classic pop song that will continue to be enjoyed by listeners for many years to come. It is a song that is both timeless and universal, and it is a reminder of the power of music to touch our hearts and souls.
Video
Lyrics
There’ll be no strings to bind your hands
Not if my love can’t bind your heart.
And there’s no need to take a stand
For it was I who chose to start.
I see no reason to take me home
I’m old enough to face the dawn.
Just call me angel of the morning, Angel
Just touch my cheek before you leave me, baby.
Just call me angel of the morning, Angel
Then slowly turn away… from me.
Maybe the sun’s light will be dim
And it won’t matter anyhow.
If morning’s echo says we’ve sinned
Well, it was what I wanted now.
And if we’re victims of the night
I won’t be blinded by the light.
Just call me angel of the morning, Angel
Just touch my cheek before you leave me, baby.
Just call me angel of the morning, Angel
Then slowly turn away…
I won’t beg you to stay… with me…
Through the tears… of the day…
Of the years… baby, baby —
Just call me angel of the morning, Angel
Just touch my cheek before you leave me, baby.
Just call me angel of the morning, Angel
Just touch my cheek before you leave me, baby…