About the song
Let’s explore the iconic song “It Wasn’t God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels” by the legendary Kitty Wells. Written by J. D. “Jay” Miller, this song was a groundbreaking moment in country music history when it was released in 1952. It became the first number one hit on the Billboard country charts by a female artist, a remarkable achievement at a time when such prominence was rare for women in the genre.
Kitty Wells, born Ellen Muriel Deason in 1919, was already an established artist when she recorded this song for Decca Records. The song’s lyrics address the double standard often applied to women who frequented honky tonks and the unfair blame placed solely on them for their actions, contrasting it with the behavior of men. It sparked controversy and debate upon its release but also resonated deeply with audiences, propelling it to the top of the charts and solidifying Kitty Wells as a trailblazer in country music.
“It Wasn’t God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels” was featured on Kitty Wells’ album titled after the song, which also included other hits from her career. Throughout her career, Wells continued to release chart-topping singles and albums, cementing her status as the “Queen of Country Music.” Her influence extended beyond her music, as she paved the way for future generations of female country artists.
Kitty Wells’ rendition of “It Wasn’t God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels” remains a poignant reminder of her powerful voice and her courage to address social issues through music. It remains a timeless classic that continues to be celebrated for its significant impact on country music history and its role in challenging societal norms of the time.
Video
Lyrics
As I sit here tonight, the jukebox’s playing
The tune about the wild side of life
As I listen to the words you are saying
It brings mem’ries when I was a trusting wife
It was’t God who made honky-tonk angels
As you said in the words of your song
Too 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 was’t God who made honky-tonk angels
As you said in the words of your song
Too many times married men think they’re still single
That has caused many a good girl to go wrong