“Is Anybody Goin’ to San Antone” stands as a classic in the repertoire of Charley Pride, capturing the essence of country storytelling with its heartfelt lyrics and lively melody. Written by Glenn Martin and Dave Kirby, the song was tailor-made for Pride, who recorded it as the lead single from his album “Charley Pride’s 10th Album,” released in February 1970.
The song quickly ascended the charts, becoming Pride’s third consecutive number one hit on the country charts. Its success was a testament to the seamless collaboration between Pride and his manager, Jack D. Johnson, who played a pivotal role in adapting the song to suit Pride’s distinctive voice and style. Johnson’s astute modifications to the chords, lyrics, and arrangement ensured that the song resonated deeply with Pride’s audience, solidifying his status as a leading figure in country music during the era.
“Is Anybody Goin’ to San Antone” opens with a vibrant, up-tempo introduction, setting the stage for Pride’s smooth and melodic vocals. The lyrics, infused with a sense of longing and wanderlust, paint a picture of a man yearning to escape to San Antonio—a theme that resonated with listeners across the country. Its appeal was not confined to the United States alone; the song also achieved chart success in Canada and garnered attention internationally.
Beyond its chart performance, “Is Anybody Goin’ to San Antone” has left a lasting legacy in popular culture and within the music industry. It has been covered by artists such as Nancy Sinatra and Doug Sahm, each bringing their own interpretations to the song while honoring its original spirit. In Sweden, the song even inspired a translated version by Bengt Palmers, showcasing its global reach and enduring appeal.
Charley Pride’s rendition of “Is Anybody Goin’ to San Antone” remains a quintessential example of classic country music, characterized by its narrative depth, memorable melody, and universal themes of travel and longing. Its inclusion in Pride’s discography underscores his ability to connect with audiences through authentic storytelling and soulful performances, ensuring its place in the pantheon of country music’s greatest hits.
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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
