Introduction
Imagine you’re on a long, winding road, the kind where the horizon seems to stretch forever. The radio crackles to life, and suddenly, Charley Pride’s voice fills the car, singing about San Antone. For many, this song is more than just a melody; it’s a soundtrack to life’s moments of longing and wandering, evoking memories of simpler times and distant places. “Is Anybody Goin’ to San Antone” isn’t just a song; it’s a journey that resonates deeply with anyone who’s ever felt the tug of the open road.
About The Composition
- Title: Is Anybody Goin’ to San Antone
- Composer: Glenn Martin and Dave Kirby
- Premiere Date: 1970
- Album/Opus/Collection: Charley Pride’s 10th Album
- Genre: Country
Background
“Is Anybody Goin’ to San Antone” was born at a time when country music was undergoing significant shifts. Released in 1970, it became one of Charley Pride’s most iconic hits, further solidifying his place in the country music hall of fame. The song, penned by Glenn Martin and Dave Kirby, taps into themes of heartache and the quest for solace, a narrative as old as time itself. The tune quickly climbed the charts, becoming a number-one hit on the country music charts. It wasn’t just a success in terms of numbers; the song struck a chord with audiences, especially those who found themselves far from home or grappling with the emotional complexities of love and loss.
Musical Style
Musically, “Is Anybody Goin’ to San Antone” exemplifies the classic country sound of the late 1960s and early 1970s. The song is characterized by its smooth, easygoing tempo and the twang of steel guitars that give it that unmistakable country flair. Charley Pride’s rich baritone voice carries the melody with a mix of warmth and melancholy, making the song both comforting and wistful. The arrangement is straightforward, with a focus on storytelling through music—a hallmark of country music at its best.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrics of “Is Anybody Goin’ to San Antone” are a poignant reflection of a man on the run, seeking to escape the pain of a broken heart. Lines like “Anyplace is alright as long as I can forget I’ve ever known her” encapsulate the essence of the song’s narrative—a desire to leave behind memories that hurt too much to keep. The mention of San Antone (San Antonio) adds a geographical anchor, a destination that symbolizes a fresh start or at least a temporary respite from sorrow.
Performance History
Since its release, “Is Anybody Goin’ to San Antone” has seen numerous performances by Charley Pride, becoming a staple in his live shows. The song’s popularity led to its inclusion in many of Pride’s greatest hits compilations and has been covered by various artists over the years, each bringing their unique style to the classic tune. Its enduring appeal is evident in how it continues to resonate with audiences, both in live performances and through countless recordings.
Cultural Impact
The song’s impact extends beyond the realm of country music. It has been featured in films and television shows, often used to evoke a sense of nostalgia or to underscore scenes of travel and introspection. For many, it’s a song that captures the spirit of a bygone era, a reminder of the simplicity and emotional depth that characterized much of the country music from that time.
Legacy
“Is Anybody Goin’ to San Antone” remains one of Charley Pride’s most beloved songs, a testament to his legacy as one of country music’s pioneering African American artists. The song’s themes of loss, escape, and the search for peace are universal, making it a timeless piece that continues to touch new generations of listeners. Its place in the country music canon is secure, not just as a hit song, but as a cultural artifact that speaks to the enduring power of music to capture the human experience.
Conclusion
“Is Anybody Goin’ to San Antone” is more than just a song; it’s a journey through the heart of country music, a trip down memory lane that invites listeners to reflect on their own experiences of love, loss, and the search for a place to call home. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Charley Pride or new to his music, this song offers something for everyone—a chance to sit back, listen, and let the music take you to a place where the past and present meet in harmony. If you haven’t yet, find a quiet moment, put on this song, and let yourself be transported to San Antone
Video
Lyrics
Rain drippin’ off the brim of my hat
It sure is cold today
Here I am walkin’ down 66
Wish she hadn’t done me that way
Sleepin’ under a table in a roadside park
A man could wake up dead
But it sure seems warmer than it did
Sleepin’ in our king-sized bed
Is anybody goin’ to San Antone
Or Phoenix, Arizona?
Any place is alright as long as I
Can forget I’ve ever known her
Wind whippin’ down the neck of my shirt
Like I ain’t got nothin’ on
But I’d rather fight the wind and rain
Than what I’ve been fightin’ at home
Yonder comes a truck with the U.S. Mail
People writin’ letters back home
Tomorrow, she’ll probably want me back
But I’ll still be just as gone
Is anybody goin’ to San Antone
Or Phoenix, Arizona?
Any place is alright as long as I
Can forget I’ve ever known her