Charlie Rich was an American country music singer, songwriter, and musician known for his smooth vocals and versatile style. Born on December 14, 1932, in Colt, Arkansas, Rich rose to prominence in the 1960s and 1970s with a string of hit songs that crossed over into pop and country charts.
Rich’s musical style blended elements of country, rock and roll, jazz, and blues, earning him the nickname “The Silver Fox” for his distinguished appearance and suave demeanor. He scored numerous chart-topping hits throughout his career, including “Behind Closed Doors,” “The Most Beautiful Girl,” and “Rollin’ with the Flow.”
In addition to his success as a recording artist, Charlie Rich was also a talented pianist and songwriter, penning many of his own songs. He won multiple Grammy Awards and was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1992.
Rich’s distinctive voice and eclectic musical influences left an indelible mark on the country music landscape, influencing generations of artists across genres. Though he passed away on July 25, 1995, his legacy continues to be celebrated by fans and fellow musicians alike.
1. Set Me Free
“Set Me Free” is a popular song performed by Charlie Rich, released in 1971 as a single from his album “She Called Me Baby”. The song reached the top ten on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart, peaking at number one.
“Set Me Free” is a soulful ballad that showcases Rich’s smooth vocals and emotional delivery. The lyrics express a plea for liberation from the pain and heartache of a failed relationship. With its heartfelt sentiment and rich musical arrangement, the song resonated with audiences and became one of Charlie Rich’s signature hits.
2. Mohair Sam
“Mohair Sam” is a classic country and R&B song originally recorded by Charlie Rich in 1965. Written by Dallas Frazier, the song tells the story of Mohair Sam, a flashy and fashionable character known for his stylish clothes and confident demeanor.
Rich’s rendition of “Mohair Sam” was a crossover success, reaching the top 40 on both the country and pop charts in the United States. The song’s upbeat rhythm, catchy melody, and playful lyrics made it a favorite among fans of both country and R&B music.
Over the years, “Mohair Sam” has been covered by various artists and remains a beloved classic in Charlie Rich’s discography. Its infectious groove and memorable chorus continue to entertain audiences and evoke the vibrant energy of the 1960s music scene.
3. Big Boss Man
“Big Boss Man” is a blues song originally written by Luther Dixon and Al Smith and first recorded by Jimmy Reed in 1960. The song tells the story of a worker’s lament to the “Big Boss Man” who holds power over him in the workplace.
Charlie Rich covered “Big Boss Man” in 1965, giving it his own distinct style. Rich’s version of the song infused elements of country and rockabilly into the bluesy original, showcasing his versatility as an artist. His soulful vocals and lively piano playing added a new dimension to the song, earning it recognition as one of his notable recordings.
“Big Boss Man” became a staple in Charlie Rich’s live performances and remains a classic example of his ability to interpret and revitalize songs from various genres. Its timeless appeal and energetic groove continue to captivate audiences to this day.
4. Lonely Weekends
“Lonely Weekends” is a song by Charlie Rich, released in 1960. It was written by Rich himself, along with a songwriter named Bill Emerson. The song is an upbeat rockabilly track with a bluesy feel, characteristic of Rich’s early style.
In “Lonely Weekends,” Rich sings about the loneliness and heartache he feels when his lover is away, leaving him to face the weekends alone. The song’s lively tempo and catchy melody contrast with the somber lyrics, creating a bittersweet mood that resonates with listeners.
“Lonely Weekends” was a moderate hit for Rich, reaching number 22 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song’s success helped establish Rich as a talented singer and songwriter in the early 1960s, setting the stage for his later successes in country and pop music.
Over the years, “Lonely Weekends” has been covered by various artists, including Elvis Presley, who recorded a version of the song in 1960. Rich’s original recording remains a classic of the rockabilly genre, showcasing his distinctive voice and songwriting talent.
5. I Feel Like Going Home
“I Feel Like Going Home” is a blues song written and originally recorded by Muddy Waters in 1948. The song is a slow blues lament, featuring Waters’ soulful vocals and expressive slide guitar playing. The lyrics convey a sense of longing and homesickness, with Waters yearning for the comfort and familiarity of home.
“I Feel Like Going Home” is considered a classic of the blues genre, showcasing Waters’ mastery of the Delta blues style. The song’s simple yet powerful melody, combined with Waters’ emotive delivery, creates a haunting and evocative atmosphere that resonates with listeners.
Over the years, “I Feel Like Going Home” has been covered by many artists, including Bob Dylan, who recorded a version of the song for his debut album in 1962. The song’s enduring popularity and influence highlight its status as a timeless blues standard, showcasing the emotional depth and raw power of Muddy Waters’ music.
6. I Take It On Home
“I Take It On Home” is a song by Charlie Rich, released in 1973 as a single from his album “Behind Closed Doors”. The song was written by Troy Seals and Mentor Williams.
“I Take It On Home” is a country ballad that features Rich’s smooth vocals and piano playing. The song’s lyrics tell the story of a man who seeks comfort in the arms of another woman after a fight with his partner, but ultimately realizes that his true home is with his partner.
The song was a commercial success, reaching number 6 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart. It is often regarded as one of Rich’s signature songs, showcasing his distinctive style and storytelling ability. “I Take It On Home” is a heartfelt and emotional song that resonates with listeners for its relatable themes of love, forgiveness, and the complexities of relationships.
7. A Very Special Love Song
“A Very Special Love Song” is a song written by Billy Sherrill and Norris Wilson, and it was recorded by Charlie Rich. The song was released in 1974 as a single from Rich’s album “Very Special Love Songs.”
The lyrics of “A Very Special Love Song” convey the deep feelings of love and devotion that the singer has for their partner. The song’s melody is gentle and romantic, with Rich’s smooth vocals adding to the emotional impact of the lyrics.
“A Very Special Love Song” became one of Charlie Rich’s biggest hits, reaching number 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and crossing over to the pop charts as well. The song’s success helped solidify Rich’s reputation as a talented singer and songwriter in the country music industry.
The song’s enduring popularity has led to it being covered by various artists over the years, further cementing its status as a classic love ballad. “A Very Special Love Song” remains a beloved song that continues to resonate with listeners for its heartfelt message and beautiful melody.
8. There Wont Be Anymore
“There Won’t Be Anymore” is a poignant country ballad originally written and recorded by Charlie Rich in 1973. The song was composed by Charlie Rich himself and was released as a single from his album “There Won’t Be Anymore”.
The lyrics of “There Won’t Be Anymore” narrate the aftermath of a broken relationship, with the protagonist reflecting on the pain and regret of losing their loved one. Rich’s emotive vocals and the song’s melancholic melody capture the sorrow and resignation of the situation.
The song became one of Charlie Rich’s biggest hits, reaching the top of the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and earning critical acclaim for its heartfelt sincerity. “There Won’t Be Anymore” remains a standout track in Rich’s discography, cherished by fans for its emotional depth and timeless appeal.
9. The Most Beautiful Girl
“The Most Beautiful Girl” is a song recorded by Charlie Rich, written by Billy Sherrill, Norro Wilson, and Rory Bourke. It was released in 1973 as a single from his album “Behind Closed Doors.”
The song’s lyrics depict a man who encounters a woman who is physically attractive but realizes that she is not the most beautiful girl in the world to him because he is still in love with someone from his past. The song’s narrator expresses regret for not realizing the value of his former lover until it was too late.
“The Most Beautiful Girl” became Charlie Rich’s biggest hit, reaching number 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart. It also crossed over to the Billboard Adult Contemporary chart, showcasing its broad appeal.
The song’s success helped solidify Rich’s status as a major country music artist and earned him several awards, including a Grammy Award for Best Country Vocal Performance, Male. “The Most Beautiful Girl” remains one of Rich’s most enduring songs, remembered for its heartfelt lyrics and Rich’s soulful delivery.
10. Behind Closed Doors
“Behind Closed Doors” is a classic country and pop song recorded by Charlie Rich in 1973. Written by Kenny O’Dell, the song explores the theme of marital infidelity and the facade that people often present to the outside world.
Rich’s smooth and soulful vocals, combined with the song’s lush orchestration and catchy melody, helped “Behind Closed Doors” become one of his most iconic hits. The song topped the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and crossed over to the pop charts, reaching a wide audience and earning critical acclaim.
“Behind Closed Doors” remains a timeless classic in Charlie Rich’s catalog, beloved by fans for its relatable lyrics and irresistible groove. It has been covered by numerous artists over the years and continues to be a staple on country radio and in popular culture.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
