“It Wasn’t God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels” is a country song written by J.D. Miller and recorded by American country music artist Kitty Wells. It was released in May 1952 as the B-side of her single “I’ll Hold You in My Heart (Till I Can Hold You in My Arms).” The song became a major hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart in July 1952. It was also a crossover hit, peaking at number 21 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
The song is a response to Hank Thompson’s 1952 hit “The Wild Side of Life.” In “The Wild Side of Life,” Thompson sings about the woman who left him for another man. In “It Wasn’t God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels,” Wells sings back, blaming Thompson for driving his woman to drink and despair.
The song was a critical and commercial success. It was praised by critics for its strong female perspective and its catchy melody. The song was also a major hit with fans, and it helped to solidify Wells’ status as one of the biggest country music stars of the era.
Background and recording
“It Wasn’t God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels” was written by J.D. Miller, who was a songwriter and producer for Decca Records. Miller wrote the song in response to Hank Thompson’s “The Wild Side of Life.” He was inspired by the song’s negative portrayal of women, and he wanted to write a song that would empower women and challenge the traditional gender roles of the time.
Wells recorded the song in 1952 at Decca Records’ studio in Nashville, Tennessee. The song was produced by Miller. The session musicians included Grady Martin on guitar, Hank Garland on guitar, and Buddy Harman on drums.
Release and reception
“It Wasn’t God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels” was released in May 1952 as the B-side of Wells’ single “I’ll Hold You in My Heart (Till I Can Hold You in My Arms).” The song was an immediate hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart in July 1952. It was also a crossover hit, peaking at number 21 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
The song was a critical and commercial success. It was praised by critics for its strong female perspective and its catchy melody. The song was also a major hit with fans, and it helped to solidify Wells’ status as one of the biggest country music stars of the era.
Legacy
“It Wasn’t God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels” is a classic country song that has stood the test of time. It is a powerful and empowering song that continues to be enjoyed by fans around the world. The song is a testament to Wells’ talent as a singer and a songwriter, and it is sure to be enjoyed for generations to come.
Other notable recordings
“It Wasn’t God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels” has been covered by many artists over the years. Some of the most notable covers include:
- Hank Thompson (1952)
- Ernest Tubb (1952)
- Webb Pierce (1952)
- Faron Young (1953)
- Patsy Cline (1962)
Wells’ version of the song remains the definitive one, but these other covers are all worth listening to.