“Kiss an Angel Good Mornin'” by Charley Pride is one of the most beloved and recognizable songs in the history of country music. Released in 1971 as the lead single from Pride’s album Charley Pride Sings Heart Songs, the song became a massive hit, topping the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and crossing over to the pop charts, where it reached No. 21 on the Billboard Hot 100. Its widespread appeal helped solidify Pride’s status as a country music legend and a trailblazer as one of the few African-American artists to achieve major success in the genre.
Lyrically, the song is a celebration of love and happiness. The central message revolves around the idea that loving and appreciating your partner is the key to a happy life. The chorus, “Kiss an angel good mornin’ / And let her know you think about her when you’re gone,” expresses a simple yet profound sentiment that resonates deeply with listeners. Pride’s smooth, rich voice delivers the lines with a warmth and sincerity that makes the song feel timeless. The theme of love as a source of strength and happiness is universal, which is likely why the song became such a major hit across both country and pop audiences.
Musically, “Kiss an Angel Good Mornin'” blends traditional country instrumentation with a catchy, almost pop-like melody. The upbeat tempo and bright, cheerful sound perfectly match the song’s optimistic message. The twang of the steel guitar and the smooth rhythm make it instantly recognizable as a country classic, yet its crossover appeal lies in its accessible, easy-to-sing-along-with chorus and feel-good vibe. The production is clean and polished, making it stand out among Pride’s catalog of hits for its mainstream appeal.
Charley Pride’s vocal performance on this track is one of the key reasons for its success. His voice is warm, inviting, and effortlessly conveys the joy and contentment that the song’s lyrics describe. Pride’s ability to connect with his audience through his voice was one of his greatest strengths as an artist, and “Kiss an Angel Good Mornin'” is a prime example of this talent. He sings the song with a smile, and you can almost hear that smile in every note.
The song’s success came at a time when country music was becoming more mainstream, and Charley Pride was one of the few Black artists to break through in the genre during this period. His success with songs like “Kiss an Angel Good Mornin'” helped pave the way for greater diversity in country music, showing that great music transcends race and background. Pride’s career was groundbreaking in many ways, and this song stands as a symbol of his ability to reach a wide audience while staying true to his country roots.
One of the reasons “Kiss an Angel Good Mornin'” remains so beloved is its simplicity. It’s a song that doesn’t try to complicate the message of love—it’s straightforward, sincere, and uplifting. At its core, the song is about appreciating the small things in life, like a simple kiss goodbye in the morning, which can make a big difference in a relationship. That kind of relatable message is why it continues to be played on country radio and cherished by fans.
The legacy of “Kiss an Angel Good Mornin'” is undeniable. It has been covered by numerous artists and remains a staple in country music history. For Charley Pride, the song was not just another hit—it became his signature song, representing his unique blend of traditional country with mainstream appeal. Even decades after its release, the song still finds new fans and remains a favorite at weddings, family gatherings, and in the hearts of country music lovers.
In conclusion, “Kiss an Angel Good Mornin'” is more than just a country hit—it’s a timeless celebration of love and appreciation. Charley Pride’s smooth vocals and the song’s catchy, uplifting melody have ensured its place in country music history. Whether you’re a longtime fan or hearing it for the first time, the song’s message of love and kindness continues to resonate, making it one of the most cherished classics in country music.
🎵 Let’s sing along with the 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