Lefty Frizzell – Always Late

About the song

Lefty Frizzell and the Countrypolitan Sound

In the annals of country music, few artists have left as indelible a mark as Lefty Frizzell. With his smooth, yet soulful vocals and a knack for crafting timeless ballads, Frizzell helped shape the sound of country music during its golden age. One of his most enduring and beloved songs is “Always Late (With Your Kisses)”, a classic tale of love, longing, and the gentle exasperation of waiting for a tardy sweetheart.

Released in 1951, “Always Late” quickly became a country hit, topping the Billboard charts and cementing Frizzell’s status as a rising star. The song’s enduring popularity can be attributed to its relatable lyrics, penned by Frizzell himself alongside songwriter Sonny Burke. The song paints a vivid picture of a lovestruck individual, their heart aflutter with anticipation, only to be met with repeated delays from their tardy beau.

Frizzell’s vocals shine throughout the song, effortlessly conveying the mix of affection, exasperation, and playful charm that lie at the heart of the narrative. His voice, described by many as a “liquid velvet”, perfectly captures the song’s blend of lightheartedness and underlying tenderness. The song’s melody, a simple yet memorable tune, complements Frizzell’s vocals perfectly, creating a listening experience that is both catchy and emotionally resonant.

“Always Late” stands as a testament to Frizzell’s songwriting prowess and his ability to connect with listeners on a deeply personal level. The song’s enduring popularity speaks to its timeless themes of love, longing, and the universal human experience of waiting for someone who is always just a little bit out of reach. Frizzell’s masterful performance and the song’s relatable narrative have ensured that “Always Late” remains a cherished classic in the vast tapestry of country music.

Key takeaways:

• “Always Late (With Your Kisses)” is a country song written by Lefty Frizzell and Sonny Burke.
• The song was released in 1951 and became a number one hit on the Billboard charts.
• The song is about a lovestruck person who is always waiting for their tardy sweetheart.
• Frizzell’s vocals are smooth and soulful, and the song’s melody is simple and catchy.
• “Always Late” is a timeless classic that is still popular today.

I hope you enjoyed this introduction to Lefty Frizzell’s “Always Late.”

Video

Lyrics

“Always Late (With Your Kisses)”

 

Always late (Always late) with your kisses (Always late)
Won’t you come to my arms sweet darling and stayAlways late (Always late) with your kisses (Always late)
Why oh why do you want to do me this way

How long do you think I can wait
When you know you’re always late

Always late (Always late) with your kisses (Always late)
Why oh why do you want to do me this way

(You’re always late, with your kisses)
(You’re always late, with your kisses)

How long do you think I can wait
When you know you’re always late

Always late (Always late) with your kisses (Always late)
Why why why do you want to do me this way

(Always late)
(Always late)
(Always late)
(Always late)
(Always late)