Unveiling the Enchanting Tale:
The Charley Pride Song – “Wonder Could I Live There Anymore”
Step into the captivating world behind the mesmerizing song, “Wonder Could I Live There Anymore,” sung by the iconic Charley Pride and written by the talented Bill Rice. This heartwarming melody topped the charts in 1970, leaving an indelible mark on country music lovers worldwide.
Charley Pride’s journey to musical stardom led him from Helena, Montana, where he spent the initial years of his career, to the vibrant city of Dallas, Texas, in 1969. The move brought him closer to Nashville, the heart of the country music industry, making touring more convenient. Besides, as a sports enthusiast, Pride was drawn to Dallas for its thrilling professional and collegiate sporting events.
In an enlightening interview with Billboard Magazine’s Ed Morris, Charley shared the inspiration behind settling in Montana initially. He sought refuge from the racial tensions that prevailed during the civil rights crisis of the mid-1960s. Nashville, though brimming with musical opportunities, was still grappling with segregation, which Charley wanted to shield his children from. He also yearned for a quieter life, away from the relentless hustle and bustle of the music business.
“Wonder Could I Live There Anymore” revolves around the cherished theme of home. The song takes us on a nostalgic journey back to the family farm, where everyday life revolves around Mom and Dad’s comforting routine. The melody was crafted by the gifted Bill Rice, who drew inspiration from a tranquil vacation. Interestingly, it stands as the only #1 single penned by Rice without his usual writing partner, Jerry Foster.
While Jerry Foster was pursuing his passion for performing, he couldn’t collaborate with Bill Rice on the song, opting to go on tour instead. This twist of fate led Rice to write the tune solo. Initially titled “I Wouldn’t Want to Live There Anymore,” the song underwent a transformation when Charley Pride put his magical touch on it.
A heartwarming gesture by Bill Rice deserves applause, as he wanted to share half the writing credit with Jerry Foster, despite Foster having no involvement in crafting “Wonder Could I Live There Anymore.” This decision was driven by their desire to form a solid songwriting team. However, publisher Bill Hall firmly opposed the idea, adamant that Jerry’s writing career deserved undivided recognition. A financial statement further highlighted the success of the song, proving Hall’s point.
As the summer of 1970 arrived, “Wonder Could I Live There Anymore” soared to the top of Billboard’s Hot Country Singles chart, reigning supreme for two weeks, starting from July 25th. But that wasn’t the only milestone for Charley Pride that year. The talented artist astounded the world by dominating the Billboard Country Album chart for an incredible 30 weeks with three different releases: “The Best Of Charley Pride,” “Just Plain Charley,” and “Charley Pride’s 10th Album.”
In conclusion, “Wonder Could I Live There Anymore” is not just a song; it’s a heartwarming journey back to the essence of home, skillfully woven by Bill Rice and brilliantly brought to life by the legendary Charley Pride. Its timeless appeal continues to tug at the heartstrings of music enthusiasts, leaving them pondering their own cherished memories of home.
- Artist: Charley Pride
- Album: From Me to You
- Released: 1970
- Genre: Country
Lyrics
Have you ever been awakened by the crowing of a rooster
While the night’s dew is still heavy on the ground
And the voice of Uncle Ben seems to break the morning’s silence
Bringing lights to windows all around
Well it’s time to rise and shine and start another hard workday
And get the cows in and start the milking chores
It’s nice to think about it, maybe even visit
But I wonder could I live there anymore
Something ’bout the smell of cornbread cookin’ on a wood stove
Seems to bring a picture to my mind
Of a little three room house with mama in the kitchen
But she can’t stop to talk, ain’t got the time
She’s a’fixin’ daddy’s supper, he’s a’workin’ overtime
Trying to pay our bill at the grocery store
It’s nice to think about it, maybe even visit
But I wonder could I live there anymore
As I think about my childhood
And of my old hometown
I don’t really miss them like before
It’s nice to think about it, maybe even visit
But I wonder could I live there anymore
