Why ‘Heaven’s Just a Sin Away’ Still Echoes in Country Music History

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Background

  • “Heaven’s Just a Sin Away” was written by Hoyt Axton.
  • It was first recorded by The Kendalls in 1977 and released as the title track of their album of the same name.
  • The song became a massive hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and number four on the Billboard Hot 100.
  • It was the first country song by a duo to reach number one on the Hot 100 since “Golden Ring” by George Jones and Tammy Wynette in 1976.
  • The song’s success helped to establish The Kendalls as one of the most popular and successful country duos of all time.

Musical Style

  • “Heaven’s Just a Sin Away” is a traditional country ballad with a mid-tempo tempo and a simple melody.
  • The song features acoustic guitar, steel guitar, and the distinctive vocals of Keith and Glen Kendall.
  • The overall sound is romantic and tender, reflecting the song’s theme of love and longing.
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Lyrics

  • The lyrics of “Heaven’s Just a Sin Away” tell the story of a man who is in love with a woman who is married.
  • The man knows that he can never have her, but he still loves her deeply.
  • He sings about his love for her and his hopes that she will someday leave her husband and be with him.
  • The song’s chorus expresses the man’s longing and regret: “Heaven’s just a sin away, but I love you anyway.”

Cultural Impact

  • “Heaven’s Just a Sin Away” had a significant impact on country music and popular culture.
  • It was one of the first country songs to address the theme of forbidden love.
  • The song’s success helped to pave the way for other country artists to sing about more controversial and taboo topics.
  • The song has been covered by numerous artists, including Kenny Rogers, Dolly Parton, and Reba McEntire.
  • The song has also been featured in films, television shows, and commercials.
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Conclusion

  • “Heaven’s Just a Sin Away” is a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences today.
  • It is a powerful song about love, longing, and regret.
  • The song’s message is as relevant today as it was when it was first released in 1977.
  • The Kendalls’ performance of the song is one of the most iconic in country music history.

Heaven’s just a sin away
Oh, oh, just a sin away
I can’t wait another day
I think I’m giving in

How I long to hold you tight
Oh, oh be with you tonight
That still don’t make it right
‘Cause I belong to him

Oh, way down deep inside
I know that it’s all wrong
Your eyes keep tempting
But I never was that strong

Devil’s got me down
Oh, oh gone and got me now
I can’t find him anyhow
I think he’s gonna win

Heaven’s just a sin away
Oh, oh, just a sin away
Heaven help me, when I say
I think I’m giving in

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Oh, way down deep inside
I know that it’s all wrong
Your eyes keep tempting
But I never was that strong

Devil’s got me down
Oh, oh gone and got me now
I can’t find him anyhow
I think he’s gonna win

Heaven’s just a sin away
Oh, oh, just a sin away
Heaven help me, when I say
I think I’m giving in

I think I’m giving in
I think I’m giving in

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