Introduction
“It Wasn’t God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels” is a classic country duet by Waylon Jennings and Jessi Colter that has become a staple of the genre. Released in 1976, the song was a massive hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and solidifying Jennings and Colter as one of country music’s most iconic couples.
The song’s origins can be traced back to 1952, when Kitty Wells recorded the original version, “It Wasn’t God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels.” Wells’ song was a response to the many male-dominated country songs of the time that often portrayed women in a negative light. Her lyrics told the story of a woman who left her cheating husband and found a new life in country music.
In 1975, Jennings and Colter were recording a duet album when they came across “It Wasn’t God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels.” They were immediately drawn to the song’s powerful message and timeless melody. Jennings and Colter’s version of the song is a duet that perfectly captures the chemistry between the two singers. Their voices blend seamlessly, creating a hauntingly beautiful sound that is both powerful and tender.
The song’s lyrics are simple yet poignant, telling the story of a woman who leaves her abusive husband and finds solace in music. The chorus, “It wasn’t God who made honky tonk angels, just hard luck and good intentions,” is both heartbreaking and empowering. It speaks to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of music to heal.
“It Wasn’t God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels” is a classic country song that has stood the test of time. It is a testament to the power of music to tell stories and to inspire hope. The song’s message of resilience and redemption continues to resonate with audiences today, making it one of the most enduring songs in country music history.