About The Song
Background
“Don’t The Girls All Get Prettier At Closing Time” is a song performed by Mickey Gilley, released in 1976 as part of his album “Gilley’s Smokin’.” The track became one of Gilley’s most recognizable hits, showcasing his blend of country, honky-tonk, and traditional pop influences. Mickey Gilley, renowned for his smooth vocals and vibrant stage presence, was a prominent figure in country music during the 1970s and 1980s, earning numerous awards and chart-topping hits throughout his career.
Musical Style
“Don’t The Girls All Get Prettier At Closing Time” is characterized by its lively and upbeat honky-tonk style, infused with elements of traditional country and pop. The song features a rhythmic piano-driven arrangement, complemented by twangy guitar riffs and a spirited drumbeat. Mickey Gilley’s vocals are charismatic and expressive, delivering the song’s humorous narrative with charm and wit. The production captures the lively atmosphere of a honky-tonk bar, with a sound that is polished yet retains a raw, energetic quality. The melody is catchy and infectious, with a chorus that invites audience participation and underscores the song’s playful tone. Overall, “Don’t The Girls All Get Prettier At Closing Time” exemplifies Mickey Gilley’s ability to craft engaging and commercially successful songs that resonate with both country music enthusiasts and mainstream listeners.
Lyrics
The lyrics of “Don’t The Girls All Get Prettier At Closing Time” humorously depict the perspective of a bar patron observing the changing perceptions of attractiveness as the night progresses. The protagonist reflects on how the dim lights and festive atmosphere of a honky-tonk bar enhance the perceived beauty of the women present. The chorus playfully reinforces the song’s theme, with the protagonist musing, “Don’t the girls all get prettier at closing time?” The verses delve into moments of lighthearted observation and camaraderie among bar patrons, capturing the social dynamics and lively ambiance of a typical night out. Mickey Gilley’s spirited delivery and playful demeanor bring the lyrics to life, making them relatable and entertaining for listeners who have experienced similar situations in nightlife settings.
Cultural Impact
Upon its release, “Don’t The Girls All Get Prettier At Closing Time” became a commercial success for Mickey Gilley, reaching high positions on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and solidifying his reputation as a top-tier entertainer in country music. The song’s infectious melody and humorous lyrics resonated with audiences, making it a favorite among fans and a staple in Gilley’s live performances. The track’s popularity extended beyond country music circles, appealing to a broader audience with its universal themes of nightlife and social interaction. Its inclusion in Gilley’s album “Gilley’s Smokin’” further enhanced its cultural impact, showcasing his ability to connect with listeners through relatable and catchy songs.
Conclusion
“Don’t The Girls All Get Prettier At Closing Time” by Mickey Gilley exemplifies his knack for blending honky-tonk humor with traditional country charm, resulting in a memorable and commercially successful song. With its upbeat musical style, playful lyrics, and Mickey Gilley’s charismatic vocals, the song resonated with audiences upon its release and continues to be celebrated as a classic in country music. Its portrayal of nightlife antics and observations ensures its enduring appeal, solidifying Mickey Gilley’s legacy as an influential and beloved artist in the genre’s history.
Video
Lyrics
Let’s sing along with the lyrics!
One, two, one, two, three, take!
Oh, the girls all get prettier about Christmas time
And they all begin to look like movie stars
On the girls all get prettier around Christmas time
When the change starts taking place
It puts a glow on every face
Of the fallin’ angels at the back street bars
(I can tell)
You gotta rate ’em on a scale from one to ten
I’m looking for a man could take the work right in
A few more drinks and I might slip to five or even four
When the Christmas morning comes
And I wake up with a number one
I swear, I’ll never do it anymore
Talking to you, Santa
Oh, the girls all get prettier around Christmas time
And they all begin to look like movie stars
Oh, the girls all get prettier around Christmas time
When the change starts taking place
It puts a glow on every face
Of the fallin’ angels of the back street bars
(Mickey Gilley on the piano)
All the guys come serve it raw
I don’t mean to criticize the girls at all
You wouldn’t let me be your Santa
Honey, even if I call
We all picture in our mind the girl that looks just right
Ain’t it funny and ain’t it strange
The way a man’s opinions change
When he starts to face that lonely night
Oh, the girls all get prettier around Christmas time
And they all begin to look like movie stars
Oh, the girls all get prettier around Christmas time
When the change starts taking place
It puts the glow on every face
Of the fallin’ angels of the back street bars
The fallin’ angels of the back street bars
Hep! Hep! Hep1
Merry Christmas baby
Whoa! Yes!
Merry Christmas everybody
Merry Christmas
Oh, man! Hey!
