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About The Song
Background
The song “It Wasn’t God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels” is a cornerstone in the history of country music, marking a pivotal moment for women in the genre. Released in 1952 by Kitty Wells, it was a direct response to Hank Thompson’s hit “The Wild Side of Life.” Thompson’s song blamed a woman for the breakup of a relationship, painting her as a morally corrupt “honky tonk angel.”
Wells, a seasoned performer and songwriter, saw an opportunity to challenge this narrative. With “It Wasn’t God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels,” she turned the tables, arguing that women’s infidelity was often a result of their partners’ neglect and mistreatment.
Musical Style
Musically, the song is a classic example of the honky-tonk style, characterized by a driving rhythm, steel guitar, and a melancholic undertone. Wells’ vocal delivery is both powerful and vulnerable, effectively conveying the emotional depth of the lyrics. The arrangement is simple yet effective, allowing the lyrics to take center stage.
Lyrics
The lyrics of “It Wasn’t God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels” are where the song’s true power lies. Wells directly addresses the blame placed on women for failed relationships, countering the accusations in Thompson’s song. She paints a picture of a woman driven to infidelity by her partner’s neglect and emotional abuse. The lyrics are raw, honest, and unapologetic, offering a voice for women who had long been silenced in country music.
The chorus, with its iconic line “It wasn’t God who made honky tonk angels, you did that one yourself,” is a powerful indictment of men’s role in creating the circumstances that lead women astray. The song also touches on themes of loneliness, heartbreak, and the complexities of human relationships.
Cultural Impact
“It Wasn’t God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels” was more than just a song; it was a cultural watershed moment. It shattered the stereotypical portrayal of women in country music, paving the way for future female artists to tell their own stories. Wells became the first female country artist to top the charts with a solo recording, proving that women could be commercially successful in a male-dominated industry.
The song’s message of female empowerment resonated with audiences, and it quickly became an anthem for women who were tired of being blamed for societal ills. It sparked a conversation about gender roles and relationships, challenging traditional norms.
Conclusion
Kitty Wells’ “It Wasn’t God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels” is a groundbreaking song that has had a lasting impact on country music and popular culture. By challenging the status quo and giving voice to women’s experiences, Wells helped to redefine the genre and paved the way for future generations of female artists. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its power and relevance, and it continues to inspire and resonate with audiences today.
It is a powerful reminder that music can be a force for social change, and that even a single song can have a profound impact on the world.
Lyrics
🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics!Â
As I sit here tonight the jukebox playing
The tune about the wild side of life
As I listen to the words you are saying
It brings memories when I was a trusting wife
It wasn’t God who made honky tonk angels
As you said in the words of your song
There’s 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 wasn’t God who made honky tonk angels
As you said in the words of your song
There’s many times married men think they’re still single
That has caused many a good girl to go wrong