About the song
“Son of a Preacher Man” is a classic soul hit with a compelling backstory and enduring legacy. Written and composed by American songwriters John Hurley and Ronnie Wilkins, the song was originally recorded by British singer Dusty Springfield in September 1968 for her influential album *Dusty in Memphis*. The song’s production was handled by a trio of notable producers—Jerry Wexler, Tom Dowd, and Arif Mardin—marking Springfield’s debut with Atlantic Records.
The single was released in late 1968 and gained significant traction, charting at number 9 in the UK and reaching number 10 on Billboard’s Hot 100 in January 1969. Despite its success, it was Springfield’s final Top 30 hit until 1987, when she experienced a resurgence with the Pet Shop Boys’ “What Have I Done to Deserve This?”. The track’s distinctive blend of soul and pop, combined with Springfield’s emotive delivery, captured the essence of the late ’60s music scene.
“Son of a Preacher Man” was initially intended for Aretha Franklin, reflecting the songwriting duo’s vision of her powerful vocal style. However, the song found a fitting home with Springfield, whose performance infused it with a unique blend of southern soul and British pop sensibility. Aretha Franklin herself recorded the song for her 1969 album *This Girl’s in Love with You*, and her sister, Erma Franklin, also offered her rendition.
The song’s cultural impact was further solidified when it was featured in Quentin Tarantino’s 1994 film *Pulp Fiction*. Its inclusion in the soundtrack played a significant role in the album’s success, which sold over two million copies and reached number six on the charts. Tarantino’s use of the track was pivotal; he has mentioned that the scene would not have been filmed without the song.
“Son of a Preacher Man” has been recognized by critics and fans alike for its enduring appeal. It was ranked number 77 on Rolling Stone’s list of “The 100 Best Singles of the Last 25 Years” in 1987 and number 43 among “The Greatest Singles of All Time” by New Musical Express in 2002. Additionally, it was featured on Rolling Stone’s list of “The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time” in 2004.
The song’s influence extends beyond music into popular culture, with samples appearing in Cypress Hill’s “Hits from the Bong” and the track being featured in the 2016 video game *Mafia III*. Dusty Springfield’s rendition remains a timeless classic, celebrated for its soulful resonance and lasting impact on both music and film.
Video
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)