Kitty Wells, born Muriel Ellen Deason in 1919, was a pioneering force in country music, earning her the title “Queen of Country Music.” While she initially resisted a career in music, she eventually succumbed to her husband Johnny Wright’s encouragement and joined his band. Her breakthrough came in 1952 with the release of “It Wasn’t God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels,” a defiant and groundbreaking response to Hank Thompson’s hit “The Wild Side of Life.”
“It Wasn’t God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels” wasn’t just a song; it was a statement. Written by J.D. Miller, it directly challenged the prevailing narrative that blamed women for the woes of broken relationships and infidelity. Wells’ recording flipped the script, arguing that men drove women to honky-tonks through their own unfaithfulness and mistreatment. The lyrics exposed the double standard prevalent in society, questioning why men were absolved of responsibility while women were stigmatized for seeking solace or revenge in honky-tonks.
The song’s impact was immediate and significant. It reached the top of the Billboard country chart, marking a watershed moment for women in the genre. It solidified Kitty Wells’ place as a star and opened doors for future female country singers. However, the song wasn’t without its critics. Some radio stations initially banned it due to its controversial subject matter, deeming it “too sensitive.” Despite the initial resistance, the public’s embrace of the song was undeniable. It resonated with women who felt marginalized and unfairly judged, offering a voice to their frustrations and experiences. “It Wasn’t God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels” remains a timeless classic, not only for its musical merit but also for its bold challenge to societal norms and its lasting impact on the landscape of country music. It earned Wells significant recognition, solidifying her reputation and contributing to her later induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame.
