About the song
“It Wasn’t God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels” is a classic country song performed by the iconic Kitty Wells. Released in 1952, this song made history in several ways. Kitty Wells, born Ellen Muriel Deason, became the first female solo artist to top the US country charts with this hit, solidifying her place in the annals of country music history.
Written by J.D. “Jay” Miller, the song was a response to Hank Thompson’s popular song “The Wild Side of Life,” which suggested that unfaithful women were responsible for the downfall of good men. Kitty Wells’ rendition, however, flipped the narrative, defending women and suggesting that it was often men who led women astray. This perspective resonated deeply with listeners and sparked considerable debate at the time.
The song’s success was not just a triumph for Wells but also a groundbreaking moment for female artists in a genre that was, at the time, dominated by men. “It Wasn’t God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels” spent six weeks at the number one spot on the Billboard country charts and earned Wells a place as the “Queen of Country Music.”
Included in her album “Country Hit Parade,” the song’s influence extended beyond its initial release, paving the way for future generations of female country artists. Its candid lyrics and Wells’ heartfelt delivery touched a chord with many, making it a timeless piece that continues to be appreciated by country music fans old and new.
Kitty Wells’ pioneering spirit and the song’s success marked a significant shift in the country music landscape, opening doors for more female voices to be heard. “It Wasn’t God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels” remains a testament to Wells’ talent and the enduring power of a song to effect change in societal attitudes.
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