Charlie Rich, born Charles Allan Rich on December 14, 1932, was an American country music singer, songwriter, and musician. He was known for his smooth, soulful voice and his versatile musical style, which blended elements of country, rock and roll, blues, and jazz.
Rich began his music career in the late 1950s, initially gaining attention as a session musician and songwriter in Memphis, Tennessee. He signed with Sun Records in the early 1960s and released several singles, including “Lonely Weekends,” which became a moderate hit.
In the late 1960s and early 1970s, Rich achieved greater success with a string of country and pop hits. He scored his first number one country hit in 1973 with “Behind Closed Doors,” which also crossed over to the pop charts and became one of his signature songs. Other hits from this period include “The Most Beautiful Girl” and “Rollin’ with the Flow.”
Rich’s music was characterized by his smooth, heartfelt vocals and his ability to convey emotion and storytelling in his songs. He was also known for his skilled piano playing, which often featured prominently in his recordings.
Throughout his career, Rich received numerous accolades for his music, including multiple Grammy Awards and induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame. Despite his success, he remained humble and down-to-earth, earning the nickname the “Silver Fox” for his prematurely gray hair.
Charlie Rich’s music continues to be celebrated by fans of country and popular music. His timeless songs and soulful performances have left a lasting impact on the music industry, solidifying his legacy as one of the most influential artists in country music history.
1. Set Me Free
“Set Me Free” is a song by Charlie Rich, released in 1971. It was written by his wife, Margaret Ann Rich. The song was included in his album “Set Me Free.”
The song showcases Rich’s soulful vocals and heartfelt delivery, typical of his style. “Set Me Free” is a poignant ballad that explores themes of longing, heartache, and the desire for freedom from emotional pain.
With its emotive lyrics and Rich’s expressive performance, “Set Me Free” became a favorite among his fans and contributed to his reputation as one of the most soulful and versatile artists in country music.
2. Mohair Sam
“Mohair Sam” is a rhythm and blues song written by Dallas Frazier. It was first recorded by American singer-songwriter Charlie Rich in 1965. The song features an upbeat tempo and catchy lyrics.
“Mohair Sam” tells the story of a sharp-dressed man named Mohair Sam, who is confident, stylish, and charming. The lyrics describe his flashy attire, his way with the ladies, and his ability to strut his stuff on the dance floor.
The song became a hit for Charlie Rich, reaching the top 40 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States. Its catchy melody and infectious groove made it a favorite among fans of rhythm and blues and rock and roll.
Over the years, “Mohair Sam” has been covered by various artists in different musical styles, including rhythm and blues, rock, and country. It remains a popular choice for live performances and continues to be enjoyed by audiences for its fun and lively energy.
3. Big Boss Man
“Big Boss Man” is a blues song originally recorded by Jimmy Reed in 1960. It was written by Reed and Luther Dixon. The song has since become a blues standard and has been covered by numerous artists in various genres.
“Big Boss Man” features a driving rhythm and bluesy guitar riffs. The lyrics tell the story of a man who works for a powerful boss, the “big boss man,” and reflects on the challenges and frustrations of working under his authority.
The song’s protagonist expresses defiance and resentment toward the boss, describing him as a tough and intimidating figure who exerts control over the workplace. Despite the hardships, the protagonist remains determined to stand up for himself and assert his independence.
“Big Boss Man” has been covered by artists such as Elvis Presley, who recorded a popular version of the song in 1967. Presley’s rendition, featuring his signature rock and roll style, helped introduce the song to a wider audience and further solidified its status as a blues classic.
“Big Boss Man” remains a beloved and enduring song in the blues genre, known for its catchy melody, memorable lyrics, and energetic performances. It continues to be performed and enjoyed by musicians and audiences around the world.
4. Lonely Weekends
“Lonely Weekends” is a rockabilly and country song written by Charlie Rich and recorded by him in 1959. Rich’s original version of the song features his distinctive piano playing and smooth vocals, blending elements of rock and roll with country and blues influences.
The lyrics of “Lonely Weekends” describe the loneliness and heartache experienced by the protagonist when they are left alone on the weekends after their lover has left them. The song captures the longing and melancholy of being without companionship during what should be a time of leisure and enjoyment.
“Lonely Weekends” was a moderate hit for Charlie Rich, reaching the top 30 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. However, it became more widely known through cover versions by other artists. One notable cover was by country singer Ernest Tubb, whose rendition of the song became a top 10 hit on the Billboard Country chart in 1960.
Over the years, “Lonely Weekends” has been covered by various artists in different genres, including rockabilly, country, and rock and roll. It remains a classic example of Charlie Rich’s songwriting and musical style and continues to be appreciated for its catchy melody and heartfelt lyrics.
5. I Feel Like Going Home
“I Feel Like Going Home” is a classic blues song written and originally performed by Muddy Waters, one of the most influential figures in the history of blues music. It was recorded in 1948 and released as a single by Chess Records.
The song is a slow and melancholic blues ballad, characterized by its mournful lyrics and emotive vocal delivery by Muddy Waters. The lyrics express a sense of longing and homesickness, with the narrator yearning to return to their childhood home where they feel a sense of comfort and belonging.
“I Feel Like Going Home” is often cited as one of Muddy Waters’ most powerful and enduring recordings, showcasing his distinctive vocal style and masterful guitar playing. The song has been covered by numerous artists over the years, including Bob Dylan, who included a version of it on his debut album in 1962.
With its evocative lyrics and haunting melody, “I Feel Like Going Home” has become a classic of the blues genre, beloved by fans of Muddy Waters and revered by musicians and critics alike for its emotional depth and timeless appeal.
6. I Take It On Home
“I Take It On Home” is a country song written by Charlie Rich. It was released in 1972 as a single from his album “Behind Closed Doors.” The song showcases Rich’s smooth vocals and distinctive piano playing, accompanied by a classic country arrangement.
In “I Take It On Home,” the protagonist describes his struggles and frustrations with life on the road as a traveling musician. He expresses a longing to return home to his loved one, where he can find comfort and solace from the challenges of the road.
The song’s lyrics convey a sense of yearning and homesickness, as the protagonist reflects on the toll that constant travel and separation can take on a relationship. Despite the hardships, he finds strength in the love and support of his partner, whom he eagerly anticipates reuniting with.
“I Take It On Home” became a top 10 hit on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart, further solidifying Charlie Rich’s reputation as one of the leading artists in country music during the 1970s. The song remains a favorite among fans of classic country music and is celebrated for its heartfelt lyrics and soulful delivery.
7. A Very Special Love Song
“A Very Special Love Song” is a classic country-pop song written by Billy Sherrill and Norro Wilson. It was recorded by American country music artist Charlie Rich and released in 1974 as a single from his album “Very Special Love Songs.”
The song is characterized by its gentle melody and heartfelt lyrics, which express the narrator’s feelings of love and devotion to their significant other. Rich’s smooth and soulful vocals bring warmth and emotion to the song, making it a favorite among fans of country and easy-listening music.
“A Very Special Love Song” became one of Charlie Rich’s biggest hits, reaching the top of the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and crossing over to the pop charts as well. The song’s universal theme of love and its timeless appeal have ensured its lasting popularity, earning it a place as one of Rich’s signature songs.
8. There Wont Be Anymore
“There Won’t Be Anymore” is a country song written by Charlie Rich. It was released in 1974 as a single from his album “There Won’t Be Anymore.” The song features Rich’s soulful vocals and poignant lyrics, accompanied by a lush orchestral arrangement.
In “There Won’t Be Anymore,” the protagonist reflects on the end of a relationship and the pain of heartbreak. He acknowledges the mistakes he has made and the consequences of his actions, realizing that the love he once had is now lost forever.
The song’s lyrics convey a sense of regret and resignation, as the protagonist comes to terms with the fact that the relationship is over and there is no chance of reconciliation. Despite the sadness of the situation, he finds solace in the memories of the love they once shared.
“There Won’t Be Anymore” became a top 20 hit on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and reached the top spot on the Billboard Adult Contemporary chart. The song’s emotional depth and heartfelt delivery resonated with audiences, earning it critical acclaim and cementing Charlie Rich’s reputation as one of the leading artists in country music.
9. The Most Beautiful Girl
“The Most Beautiful Girl” is a classic country-pop song recorded by American country music artist Charlie Rich. It was written by Billy Sherrill, Rory Bourke, and Norro Wilson. The song was released in 1973 as a single from Rich’s album “Behind Closed Doors.”
“The Most Beautiful Girl” features a memorable melody and heartfelt lyrics that express the narrator’s feelings of love and admiration for a woman who has captured his heart. Rich’s smooth and soulful vocals bring depth and emotion to the song, making it a standout track in his repertoire.
The song was a massive commercial success, reaching the top of the Billboard Hot 100, Hot Country Singles, and Adult Contemporary charts in the United States. It also achieved international success, topping the charts in Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom.
“The Most Beautiful Girl” remains one of Charlie Rich’s most enduring and beloved songs, earning its place as a classic of both country and pop music. Its universal theme of love and its timeless appeal have ensured its lasting popularity, making it a favorite among fans of Rich and country music alike.
10. Behind Closed Doors
“Behind Closed Doors” is a country song written by Kenny O’Dell. It was recorded by Charlie Rich and released as a single in 1973. The song was also the title track of Rich’s album “Behind Closed Doors,” which was released the same year.
The song features Rich’s smooth vocals accompanied by lush orchestration and a soulful arrangement. “Behind Closed Doors” explores the theme of hidden desires and private moments within a relationship. The lyrics describe how things may appear perfect on the surface, but behind closed doors, there are secrets and complexities.
The chorus, with its repeated refrain of “Behind closed doors,” emphasizes the idea of intimacy and privacy, suggesting that what happens in private can be different from what is seen in public. The song’s sultry melody and evocative lyrics struck a chord with listeners, making it one of Charlie Rich’s most popular and enduring hits.
“Behind Closed Doors” became a massive success, reaching the top of the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and crossing over to the pop charts as well. It earned Rich several awards, including the Grammy Award for Best Male Country Vocal Performance. The song remains a classic of the country genre and is celebrated for its timeless appeal and universal themes of love and secrecy.