About the song
“Sister Golden Hair” is a standout track from the band America’s fifth studio album, *Hearts*, released in 1975. Written by Gerry Beckley, the song marked a significant achievement for the band as it became their second single to top the Billboard Hot 100 chart, holding the number one position for one week.
Gerry Beckley, the song’s writer and one of the band’s lead vocalists, has shared that “Sister Golden Hair” was inspired by the work of Jackson Browne. Beckley admired Browne’s ability to convey real-life observations in his lyrics. He noted that Browne’s honest and reflective songwriting influenced his own approach, giving “Sister Golden Hair” a distinctive LA feel in its storytelling. Beckley also mentioned that this song was among the first times he used the informal word “ain’t” in his lyrics, a choice that came naturally as he immersed himself in the mindset of the song.
The song tells the story of a man who has found love but is reluctant to commit to marriage. Record World described it as a narrative about a man who is hesitant to settle down despite his affection. The lyrics capture a sense of indecision and emotional complexity, which resonate with listeners.
Musically, “Sister Golden Hair” features Beckley playing a prominent 12-string guitar and slide guitar. Beckley mentioned that he used a particularly nice steel slide chosen by David Lindley, which added a unique texture to the track.
The music video for “Sister Golden Hair” includes footage of the band performing the song on *The Midnight Special*, a well-known music television show. Although this video is not an official release, it provides a glimpse into the band’s live performance of the song.
Overall, “Sister Golden Hair” remains a memorable and influential song in America’s catalog, celebrated for its engaging lyrics and distinctive sound.
Video
Lyrics
Well, I tried to make it Sunday, but I got so damn depressed
That I set my sights on Monday and I got myself undressed
I ain’t ready for the altar but I do agree there’s times
When a woman sure can be a friend of mine
Well, I keep on thinkin’ ’bout you
Sister Golden Hair surprise
And I just can’t live without you
Can’t you see it in my eyes?
I’ve been one poor correspondent
And I’ve been too, too hard to find
But it doesn’t mean you ain’t been on my mind
Will you meet me in the middle?
Will you meet me in the air?
Will you love me just a little?
Just enough to show you care?
Well, I tried to fake it
I don’t mind sayin’, I just can’t make it
Well, I keep on thinkin’ ’bout you
Sister Golden Hair surprise
And I just can’t live without you
Can’t you see it in my eyes?
Now I’ve been one poor correspondent
And I’ve been too, too hard to find
But it doesn’t mean you ain’t been on my mind
Will you meet me in the middle?
Will you meet me in the air?
Will you love me just a little?
Just enough to show you care?
Well, I tried to fake it
I don’t mind sayin’, I just can’t make it