“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
There are moments in life when a melody becomes more than just a tune—it becomes a memory, a feeling, a part of your very being. Ronnie Milsap’s “It Was Almost Like A Song” is one such piece. The song has a way of evoking nostalgia, almost like it’s bringing you back to a time and place that feels both familiar and dreamlike. For many, this song isn’t just something you listen to; it’s something you feel deeply. Whether it’s the first dance at a wedding or a moment of quiet reflection, this song has woven itself into the fabric of countless lives.
About The Composition
- Title: It Was Almost Like A Song
- Composer: Hal David, Archie Jordan
- Premiere Date: 1977
- Album/Opus/Collection: It Was Almost Like A Song (album)
- Genre: Country
Background
“It Was Almost Like A Song” was released in 1977 as the title track for Ronnie Milsap’s album of the same name. Composed by the legendary Hal David and Archie Jordan, the song quickly became one of Milsap’s signature pieces. Its blend of country and pop elements, combined with Milsap’s soulful delivery, helped it climb the charts, becoming his first number-one hit on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. The song’s success marked a pivotal moment in Milsap’s career, solidifying his place as a major force in country music.
Musical Style
The musical style of “It Was Almost Like A Song” is a beautiful blend of country and pop, a hallmark of Ronnie Milsap’s sound. The arrangement is lush, featuring strings that add a layer of emotional depth to the song. The piano, which is central to the composition, underscores the song’s melancholy tone, while Milsap’s vocal performance is filled with a heartfelt sincerity that resonates with listeners. The song’s structure, with its poignant verses leading into a deeply emotional chorus, makes it a timeless ballad.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrics of “It Was Almost Like A Song” tell a story of love lost, reflecting on a relationship that was as fleeting as a beautiful melody. The imagery in the lyrics is vivid, painting a picture of a love that was intense and beautiful but ultimately transient. The chorus, “It was almost like a song,” captures the essence of the fleeting nature of love, comparing it to a song that plays and then fades away, leaving only memories.
Performance History
Since its release, “It Was Almost Like A Song” has been performed by Ronnie Milsap in countless concerts and has been featured in numerous compilations of his greatest hits. Its popularity has endured over the years, with the song being covered by various artists across different genres. The song’s success on the charts, combined with its lasting appeal, makes it one of Milsap’s most memorable performances.
Cultural Impact
“It Was Almost Like A Song” has had a significant impact beyond the world of country music. Its crossover appeal helped introduce Ronnie Milsap to a broader audience, contributing to the genre’s mainstream success in the late 1970s. The song has been used in television shows and movies, often as a poignant reminder of love and loss. Its lyrics and melody have made it a favorite at weddings, anniversaries, and other sentimental occasions, where it continues to touch hearts.
Legacy
The legacy of “It Was Almost Like A Song” is one of enduring emotional resonance. Decades after its release, the song remains a staple in Ronnie Milsap’s repertoire and a beloved classic in the country music canon. Its timeless quality ensures that it continues to be discovered by new generations of listeners, who find in it a reflection of their own experiences with love and loss.
Conclusion
“It Was Almost Like A Song” is more than just a hit single; it’s a piece of music that has touched the lives of many. Whether you’re listening to it for the first time or revisiting it after many years, the song’s emotional depth and beautiful melody have the power to move you. I encourage you to explore Ronnie Milsap’s recording of this song, as well as live performances, to fully appreciate the artistry behind this timeless piece.
Video
Lyrics
Once in every life … someone comes along,
And you came to me … it was almost like a song.
You were in my heart … right where you belong,
And we were so in love … it was almost like a song.
January through December … we had such a perfect year,
Then the flames became a dying ember …
All at once you weren’t here.
Now my broken heart … cries for you each night,
And it’s almost like a song … but it’s much too sad to write.
Now my broken heart … cries for you each night,
And it’s almost like a song … but it’s much to sad to write …
Much too sad to write.