About the song
“Try a Little Kindness” is a heartfelt song that exemplifies Glen Campbell’s ability to bring warmth and sincerity to his music. Written by Curt Sapaugh and Bobby Austin, this song was first recorded by Campbell and released in 1969. Its message, encouraging kindness and understanding, resonated deeply with audiences and helped it become a notable hit across various music charts.
Upon its release, “Try a Little Kindness” achieved remarkable success. It climbed to number one on the Hot Adult Contemporary chart, showcasing Campbell’s appeal to a broad audience beyond traditional country music listeners. Additionally, the song reached number two on the US Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, where it remained for one week. Its popularity extended to the Billboard Hot 100, where it peaked at number 23. Internationally, the song performed well, hitting number ten on the Australian Go-Set Chart and number four on the New Zealand Singles Chart. In Canada, it topped the RPM Country Tracks chart and reached number five on the RPM Top Singles chart, further solidifying its broad appeal.
The success of “Try a Little Kindness” reflects its universal message and Campbell’s compelling performance. The song’s ability to connect with listeners across different genres and regions highlights its enduring charm. Campbell’s version of the song remains a significant part of his musical legacy, illustrating his knack for delivering songs with both emotional depth and broad appeal.
Over the years, “Try a Little Kindness” has been covered by several artists, each bringing their own flavor to the song. Notable recordings include versions by The Wilburn Brothers, Wanda Jackson, Jack Greene, and Lynn Anderson, among others. These covers have kept the song alive in the country music tradition and beyond, showing its lasting impact on the music world.
Glen Campbell’s recording of “Try a Little Kindness” stands out not only for its chart success but also for its powerful, uplifting message. The song encourages listeners to embrace kindness in their everyday lives, a timeless sentiment that continues to resonate today.
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Video
Lyrics
If you see your brother standing by the road
With a heavy load from the seeds he sowed
And if you see your sister falling by the way
Just stop and say, “You’re going the wrong way”
You’ve got to try a little kindness
Yes, show a little kindness
Just shine your light for everyone to see
And if you try a little kindness
Then you’ll overlook the blindness
Of narrow-minded people on the narrow-minded streets
Don’t walk around the down and out
Lend a helping hand instead of doubt
And the kindness that you show every day
Will help someone along their way
You got to try a little kindness
Yes, show a little kindness
Just shine your light for everyone to see
And if you try a little kindness
Then you’ll overlook the blindness
Of narrow-minded people on the narrow-minded streets
You got to try a little kindness
Yes, show a little kindness
Just shine your light for everyone to see
And if you try a little kindness
Then you’ll overlook the blindness
Of narrow-minded people on the narrow-minded streets