Kitty Wells, born Muriel Ellen Deason, was a pioneering American country music singer who broke ground for women in the genre. Often hailed as the “Queen of Country Music,” she rose to prominence in the 1950s and paved the way for countless female artists to follow. Her influence on country music is undeniable, and her career spanned decades, earning her numerous accolades including a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 1991 and induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1976. While Wells charted numerous songs, she’s arguably best known for her groundbreaking hit, “It Wasn’t God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels.”
Released in 1952, “It Wasn’t God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels” was a direct response to Hank Thompson’s “The Wild Side of Life,” which blamed women for the downfall of men. Wells’ song offered a female perspective, asserting that unfaithful men are equally responsible for the heartbreak and infidelity found in honky-tonk relationships. It tackles the double standards prevalent at the time, suggesting that if men are going to patronize honky-tonks, women are equally likely to be drawn to them due to societal pressures and unhappiness.
The song resonated powerfully with audiences, particularly women, who felt their experiences were finally being acknowledged. “It Wasn’t God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels” became a massive hit, reaching number one on the Billboard country chart, making Wells the first woman to achieve that milestone. While some radio stations initially banned the song due to its controversial lyrics, the public’s demand was overwhelming. It sparked a national conversation about gender roles, fidelity, and the portrayal of women in country music, cementing its place as a landmark recording in the genre’s history and a defining moment in Kitty Wells’ career. Its continued relevance stems from its honest and unflinching portrayal of relationship complexities and enduring themes of gender equality.
