About the song
It’s a genuine pleasure to turn our attention today to a song that, for many of us, evokes a sense of wistful romance and enduring charm. We’re stepping back to a track that beautifully blends country sensibilities with pop accessibility, delivered by an artist whose voice became synonymous with a string of memorable hits: Juice Newton and her iconic rendition of “Angel Of The Morning.”
Now, “Angel Of The Morning” has a fascinating history, having been written by Chip Taylor (yes, the uncle of Angelina Jolie!) and first recorded by Evie Sands in 1967. It saw a major pop hit with Merrilee Rush in 1968, and even a powerful version by P.P. Arnold. But for a certain generation, and particularly within the country and adult contemporary realms, it was Juice Newton’s 1981 interpretation that truly captured hearts and solidified its place as a classic.
Newton’s version arrived at a perfect time, showcasing her distinct vocal style – a blend of power and tenderness, with just enough of a country inflection to give it character without alienating pop audiences. Her take on “Angel Of The Morning” became a massive cross-over success, reaching the Top 5 on both the Billboard Hot 100 and the Hot Country Songs charts, and even topping the Adult Contemporary chart. This success wasn’t merely accidental; it was a testament to Newton’s ability to imbue the song with a particular warmth and sincerity that resonated deeply.
The lyrical content, of course, is what truly gives the song its enduring appeal. It’s a poignant narrative, told from the perspective of a woman addressing a lover after a one-night encounter, expressing a tender hope for continued connection despite the unspoken brevity of their time together. It speaks to a mature understanding of fleeting moments, yet still clinging to the beauty and intimacy shared. There’s a delicate balance of vulnerability and quiet strength in the lyrics, beautifully mirrored by Newton’s performance. She doesn’t over-dramatize the emotion; instead, she delivers it with a nuanced grace that makes it incredibly relatable. For those of us who appreciate a song that explores the more bittersweet shades of love and longing, Juice Newton’s “Angel Of The Morning” remains a truly beautiful and evocative piece, perfectly capturing a moment in time and emotion that still resonates strongly decades later.
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
