About the song
Let’s journey back to the roots of country music with “It Wasn’t God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels” by the esteemed Kitty Wells, a pioneering song that challenged societal norms and became a classic in its own right. Written by J. D. “Jay” Miller, this song served as a response to the derogatory lyrics of male-centric honky-tonk songs of the time.
Originally released in 1952 as a single by Kitty Wells, “It Wasn’t God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels” became an instant success, reaching the number one spot on the Billboard Country Singles chart. It made Wells the first female solo artist to achieve this feat, paving the way for other women in country music.
The song’s poignant lyrics and Wells’ emotive vocals struck a chord with audiences, resonating with women who felt marginalized by the male-dominated music industry. Its message of empowerment and defiance sparked a national conversation about gender roles and representation in music.
While “It Wasn’t God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels” faced backlash from some radio stations and country music establishments, its impact was undeniable. It sparked a wave of female empowerment within the genre and solidified Kitty Wells’ legacy as the “Queen of Country Music.”
Kitty Wells’ groundbreaking performance and unwavering courage in recording “It Wasn’t God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels” cemented her status as a trailblazer in country music history. Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering this song for the first time, its significance in shaping the landscape of country music is undeniable.