About the song
“Angel of the Morning” stands as a timeless classic, originally penned by Chip Taylor in 1967 and first recorded by Evie Sands. However, it was Merrilee Rush’s 1968 rendition that catapulted the song to global recognition. The track was born from Taylor’s inspiration after hearing the Rolling Stones’ “Ruby Tuesday,” seeking to capture a similar emotional intensity.
Initially offered to Connie Francis, who declined due to its perceived risqué nature, “Angel of the Morning” found its first notable recording with Evie Sands. Despite a limited release, the song’s potential was recognized, leading to subsequent covers and versions. Notably, P. P. Arnold contributed backing vocals on a rendition by Billie Davis in the UK, demonstrating the song’s cross-continental appeal.
The breakthrough came with Merrilee Rush’s rendition, recorded at American Sound Studios in Memphis under the production of Chips Moman and Tommy Cogbill. Rush, discovered while touring with Paul Revere and the Raiders, lent her voice to a rendition that resonated deeply, soaring to the Top 10 of the Billboard Hot 100 by June 1968. This version also topped charts in Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, solidifying its international acclaim.
Decades later, in 1981, “Angel of the Morning” experienced a resurgence with Juice Newton’s rendition. Newton’s country-rock interpretation, suggested by Capitol Records’ Steve Meyer, became a chart-topping success, reaching No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 and spending three weeks at No. 1 on the adult contemporary chart. Newton’s version sold over a million units in the US alone and earned her a Grammy nomination, paralleling Rush’s earlier accolades.
Notably, Newton’s music video for “Angel of the Morning” marked a significant milestone as the first country music video aired on MTV, coinciding with the network’s launch in 1981. The song’s enduring popularity is evident in its multiple chart appearances across different decades and regions, cementing its status as a beloved anthem of love and longing.
“Angel of the Morning” continues to be cherished by audiences worldwide, its evocative lyrics and melodic charm transcending generations and musical genres, affirming its place in the pantheon of enduring pop classics.
Video
Lyrics
There’ll be no strings to bind your hands
Not if my love can’t bind your heart
There’s no need to take a stand
For it was I who chose to start
I see no need to take me home
I’m old enough to face the dawn
Just call me angel of the morning, angel
Just touch my cheek before you leave me, baby
Just call me angel of the morning, angel
Then slowly turn away from me
Maybe the sun’s light will be dim
And it won’t matter anyhow
If morning’s echo says we’ve sinned
Well, it was what I wanted now
And if we’re victims of the night
I won’t be blinded by the light
Just call me angel of the morning, angel
Just touch my cheek before you leave me, baby
Just call me angel of the morning, angel
Then slowly turn away
I won’t beg you to stay with me
Through the tears
Of the day
Of the years
Baby
Just call me angel of the morning, angel
Just touch my cheek before you leave me, baby
Just call me angel of the morning, angel
Just touch my cheek before you leave me, darling
Just call me angel of the morning, angel
Just touch my cheek before you leave me, darling