About the song
Conway Twitty. Now there’s a voice that could soothe a heartache or raise a ruckus, depending on the tune. And speaking of tunes, today we’re setting our sights on a classic of the genre: There’s A Honky Tonk Angel (Who’ll Take Me Back In). Released in 1974, this song became a chart-topper for Twitty, solidifying his status as a country music legend. But There’s A Honky Tonk Angel is more than just a catchy song; it’s a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the allure of redemption – all wrapped up in a melody that’ll have you tapping your foot.
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Before we delve into the song itself, let’s set the stage. The early 1970s were a fascinating time for country music. While the genre had always embraced elements of heartbreak and working-class struggles, a new wave of artists, often dubbed the “outlaw country” movement, were pushing boundaries.
Singers like Waylon Jennings and Willie Nelson were bringing a grittier, more personal sound to Nashville. But Conway Twitty, ever the shrewd performer, managed to bridge the gap. He incorporated some of the outlaw swagger while maintaining a smooth, soulful delivery that resonated with a broad audience.
There’s A Honky Tonk Angel falls squarely in this sweet spot. The song opens with a gentle piano melody, setting a melancholic tone. Twitty’s unmistakable baritone then dips in, weaving a tale of a man drowning his sorrows in a dimly lit bar, the honky tonk of the title. We quickly learn he’s there seeking solace after a messy breakup: “She walked out this mornin’, didn’t leave a single word” The lyrics paint a vivid picture of this down-on-his-luck character, one easily relatable to anyone who’s ever nursed a drink at the bottom of a glass.
But the song takes a surprising turn when our heartbroken protagonist spots a glimmer of hope amidst the smoke and haze. “Across a crowded room, an angel in disguise” This “honky tonk angel” becomes a beacon, a potential savior who might offer him a way back from the brink. The rest of the song becomes a desperate plea, a man clinging to the possibility of redemption through this mysterious woman. “There’s a honky tonk angel (Who’ll take me back in)” The lyrics become a potent cocktail of longing and vulnerability, a raw portrayal of a man yearning for a second chance.
There’s A Honky Tonk Angel is more than just a break-up ballad, though. It taps into a universal human desire for forgiveness and a fresh start. The honky tonk itself becomes a metaphor – a place of despair, yes, but also a place of unexpected encounters and, perhaps, a path towards healing. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to Twitty’s storytelling ability and the timeless themes it explores.
So, the next time you find yourself in a reflective mood, put on There’s A Honky Tonk Angel and let Conway Twitty’s voice wash over you. You might just find yourself swayed by the tale of a broken man and the hope he finds in the most unexpected of places.
Video
Lyrics
When was the last time you kissed meAnd I don’t mean a touch now and thenIt’s been a long time since you felt like my womanAnd even longer since I felt like your man
So tell me if you think it’s overAnd I’ll leave it up to you how it endsAnd if there’s someone who wants the love you can give himWell there’s a honky tonk angel who’ll take me back in
We’ve been living a lie for so long nowHow much more do you think we can standThere’s an old friend out there and she’s waitingLord, she’s happy just holding my hand
So tell me if you think it’s overAnd I’ll leave it up to you how it endsAnd if he still wants the love you can give himWell there’s a honky tonk angel who’ll take me back inYeah there’s a honky tonk angel who’ll take me back in