, No. 53 in Best Country: Ben Peters’ song, Jack Clement’s production, and the original RCA album.){kind=link}
Charley Pride’s “Kiss an Angel Good Mornin’” (1971) takes No. 53 in our Best Country Songs countdown. Written by Ben Peters and produced by Jack Clement, it turns everyday affection into a country standard. At its heart is a simple idea: lasting love depends on showing someone that they matter, day after day.
The story behind Kiss an Angel Good Mornin’
The Recording Academy’s account of the song credits Ben Peters as its writer and “Cowboy” Jack Clement as producer. In fact, Peters found his inspiration after he and his wife, Jackie, welcomed their daughter Angela. From there, that family connection grew into a song about affection and happiness. Above all, it celebrates the small gestures that keep a relationship alive.
Rather than build its story around heartbreak, the song presents a man whose happiness attracts questions from the people around him. In response, his answer is practical and affectionate. At the same time, the contrast between tenderness and playful desire gives the refrain its spark. Meanwhile, Pride’s delivery makes the advice sound friendly and personal, as though he is sharing something that has worked in his own life.
The original 1971 RCA single
RCA Victor released “Kiss an Angel Good Mornin’” in October 1971. The original American single, RCA Victor 74-0550 paired it with “No One Could Ever Take Me From You.” Below, a promotional label shows the title and the credits for Peters and Clement.
Charley Pride Sings Heart Songs
The recording also appears on Charley Pride Sings Heart Songs. Pride’s official album catalog dates the RCA Victor album to October 1971 and lists “Kiss an Angel Good Mornin’” as its fourth track. Other selections include “You’ll Still Be the One,” “What Money Can’t Buy,” and the single’s companion song, “No One Could Ever Take Me From You.”
A lasting place in country music
The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum describes Pride’s warm baritone and his role in breaking racial and cultural barriers. For that reason, this recording offers a welcoming introduction to that voice. Indeed, its clear message needs no elaborate explanation. The performance places the feeling of the song at the center.
In 2024, “Kiss an Angel Good Mornin’” entered the GRAMMY Hall of Fame, recognizing the recording’s lasting significance. Our countdown follows the Rolling Stone list reproduced by Aztechin, where the song holds No. 53.
Continue with No. 52: Flatt and Scruggs’ “Foggy Mountain Breakdown,” or explore more of Pride’s music with “Is Anybody Goin’ to San Antone.”
Listen to Kiss an Angel Good Mornin’
Hear the recording below, supplied through Charley Pride’s official artist channel.