About the song
“Son of a Preacher Man,” sung by the incomparable Dusty Springfield, is a timeless classic that has left an indelible mark on the music world since its release. Featured on her 1968 album “Dusty in Memphis,” this soulful track embodies Springfield’s unique blend of pop, soul, and rhythm and blues.
Written by John Hurley and Ronnie Wilkins, “Son of a Preacher Man” tells the story of a young woman’s romantic encounters with the son of a preacher. Springfield’s emotive vocals and the song’s catchy melody create a captivating listening experience that resonates with audiences of all ages.
Upon its release, “Son of a Preacher Man” became a commercial success, reaching the top 10 on both the UK Singles Chart and the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States. Its popularity was further boosted by its inclusion in the soundtrack of the iconic film “Pulp Fiction” in 1994, introducing the song to a new generation of listeners.
For many older listeners, “Son of a Preacher Man” evokes memories of the late 1960s, a period of social change and musical innovation. Dusty Springfield’s soulful voice and the song’s timeless appeal make it a beloved classic that continues to be celebrated and enjoyed by fans around the world.
The album “Dusty in Memphis” is regarded as one of Dusty Springfield’s greatest achievements, showcasing her extraordinary vocal talent and impeccable musical sensibility. It received critical acclaim upon its release and has since been hailed as a masterpiece of the soul genre.
“Son of a Preacher Man” remains a staple in Dusty Springfield’s repertoire and a standout track in her illustrious career. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the song’s universal themes of love and desire, as well as Springfield’s enduring influence on popular music. Whether you’re rediscovering this gem or hearing it for the first time, “Son of a Preacher Man” is sure to leave a lasting impression with its soulful melodies and heartfelt lyrics.
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Lyrics
Billy Ray was the preacher’s son
And when his daddy would visit he’d come along
When they gathered ’round and started talkin’
That’s when Billy would take me walkin’
Out through the back yard we’d go walkin’
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, ooh, yes, he was
Being good isn’t always easy
No matter how hard I try
When he started sweet-talkin’ to me
He’d come and 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, ooh, Lord knows, he was (yes, he was)
How well I remember
The look that was in his eyes
Stealin’ kisses from me on the sly
Takin’ time to make time
Tellin’ me that he’s all mine
Learnin’ from each other’s knowin’
Lookin’ to see how much we’ve grown and
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
He was the sweet-talkin’ son of a preacher man
(The only boy who could ever teach me)
I kissed me the son of a preacher man
(The only one who could ever move me)
The sweet-lovin’ son of a preacher man
(The only one who could ever groove me)
(Was the son of a preacher man)
(The only one who could ever reach me)
(Was the son of a)