Tanya Tucker – Delta Dawn

About the song

Released on September 11, 1972, Tanya Tucker’s debut studio album *Delta Dawn* marked the arrival of a promising new star in the country music world. At just thirteen years old, Tucker captured the attention of both critics and audiences with her impressive vocal prowess and mature delivery, setting a new standard for young artists in the genre. Produced by the esteemed Billy Sherrill, the album showcases Tucker’s versatility and potential for long-term success.

The album’s title track, “Delta Dawn,” became a significant hit, peaking at No. 6 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and reaching No. 72 on the Hot 100. This song not only introduced Tucker’s distinct voice to a wider audience but also established her as a formidable presence in country music. In Canada, “Delta Dawn” achieved a remarkable No. 3 spot on the RPM Country Singles chart, further cementing Tucker’s growing popularity.

Following this success, the album’s second single, “Love’s the Answer,” coupled with its B-side “The Jamestown Ferry,” continued to build on Tucker’s momentum. Released in October 1972, this single reached No. 5 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and enjoyed the top position on the RPM Country Singles chart in Canada. The strong performance of these singles helped *Delta Dawn* peak at No. 32 on the US Billboard Hot Country LP’s chart.

Critical reception of the album highlighted Tucker’s impressive debut. A review in the September 23, 1972, issue of Cashbox praised Tucker for her remarkable talent, noting that while she was a young star at the time, the album showcased her versatility and potential for future success. Tracks like “Soul Song,” “I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry,” and “Love’s the Answer” were particularly noted for their quality and emotional depth.

Overall, *Delta Dawn* not only launched Tanya Tucker’s career but also established her as a significant new voice in country music. The album remains a testament to her early promise and the beginning of a remarkable journey in the industry. With its blend of heartfelt ballads and spirited performances, *Delta Dawn* captures the essence of Tucker’s talent and sets the stage for her enduring career.

Video

Lyrics

Delta Dawn, what’s that flower you have on
Could it be a faded rose from days gone by?
And did I hear you say he was a-meeting you here today
To take you to his mansion in the sky?

She’s forty-one and her daddy still calls her, ‘baby’
All the folks around Brownsville say she’s crazy
‘Cause she walks down town with a suitcase in her hand
Looking for a mysterious dark-haired man

In her younger days they called her Delta Dawn
Prettiest woman you ever laid eyes on
Then a man of low degree stood by her side
And promised her he’d take her for his bride

Delta Dawn, what’s that flower you have on
Could it be a faded rose from days gone by?
And did I hear you say he was a-meeting you here today
To take you to his mansion in the sky?

Delta Dawn, what’s that flower you have on
Could it be a faded rose from days gone by?
And did I hear you say he was a-meeting you here today
To take you to his mansion in the sky?

Delta Dawn, what’s that flower you have on
Could it be a faded rose from days gone by?
And did I hear you say he was a-meeting you here today
To take you to his mansion in the sky?

Delta Dawn, what’s that flower you have on
Could it be a faded rose from days gone by?
And did I hear you say he was a-meeting you here today
To take you to his mansion in the sky?