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About the song

Charley Pride’s “The Snakes Crawl at Night” is a striking country ballad that reflects the deep emotional storytelling Pride was known for. Released in 1974, this song became one of the iconic hits that helped cement Charley Pride’s legacy in country music history. With its haunting lyrics, evocative melody, and raw emotion, “The Snakes Crawl at Night” captures a somber tale of heartbreak and betrayal.

About “The Snakes Crawl at Night” by Charley Pride

Written by Mel Tillis, a legendary figure in country music, “The Snakes Crawl at Night” is a poignant song that showcases Tillis’ ability to craft deeply resonant lyrics that tug at the heartstrings. The song was produced by Jack Clement, one of Nashville’s most respected producers, who worked with Pride to create a sound that blended traditional country with a sense of vulnerability and authenticity. The song’s narrative is about a man who experiences a deep sense of loss, using the metaphor of snakes crawling in the night to describe the feeling of betrayal.

Charley Pride, who was a trailblazer for African American country artists, delivered the song with his characteristic smooth baritone voice, making it all the more impactful. Pride’s ability to evoke such emotion through his vocals helped “The Snakes Crawl at Night” reach listeners on a personal level. This track was featured on his 1974 album The Snakes Crawl at Night, which showcased his versatility as both a vocalist and an interpreter of country music’s most heartfelt themes.

Chart Performance and Album Details

Upon its release, “The Snakes Crawl at Night” achieved significant success. The song reached #3 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, one of Charley Pride’s highest-charting singles at the time. Its success on the charts solidified Pride’s place among the top stars of country music in the 1970s. The song was a key track on the album of the same name, The Snakes Crawl at Night. The album itself went on to become a success, reaching the Top 10 on the Country Albums chart. With a blend of heartbreak, loss, and emotional depth, the album featured some of the finest work of Charley Pride’s career, and this song was undoubtedly one of its highlights.

“The Snakes Crawl at Night” resonated with audiences for its narrative depth, a hallmark of traditional country music, and its introspective lyrics that told a story everyone could relate to. The image of snakes slithering at night serves as a powerful metaphor for deception and the fear of the unknown, creating a vivid mental picture for listeners as they immersed themselves in the song.

Charley Pride’s Impact on Country Music

Charley Pride, who had already enjoyed a number of hits before “The Snakes Crawl at Night,” was a pioneering artist, especially for African American musicians in the predominantly white world of country music. He was one of the first Black country singers to achieve mainstream success, breaking racial barriers and becoming an inspiration to countless artists. His career spanned over five decades, with numerous chart-topping hits and a host of accolades, including being inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame.

His smooth, baritone voice and ability to connect with his audience through storytelling made him beloved by fans worldwide. Pride’s music, including hits like “Kiss an Angel Good Mornin'” and “Is Anybody Goin’ to San Antone,” helped redefine what country music could be, broadening its appeal beyond its traditional fanbase.

Conclusion

Charley Pride’s “The Snakes Crawl at Night” remains a timeless piece of country music history. Released in 1974, the song reflects the soul of country music with its heart-wrenching lyrics and emotionally charged performance. Written by Mel Tillis, the song became a standout track on the album of the same name and marked another successful chapter in Charley Pride’s illustrious career. As a song, it continues to resonate with fans, offering a story of loss and betrayal that is universal in its themes.

Through his powerful vocals and poignant storytelling, Charley Pride delivered a song that not only became a chart-topping hit but also cemented his place as one of country music’s most revered artists. The Snakes Crawl at Night is an essential listen for anyone who appreciates the emotional depth of country music and the artistry that Charley Pride brought to the genre.