Ronnie Milsap’s “It Was Almost Like a Song” Bridges Country and Pop in 1977

In 1977, Ronnie Milsap released “It Was Almost Like a Song,” a track that would become a defining moment in his career and a significant milestone in the blending of country and pop music. The song not only topped the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart but also marked Milsap’s first entry into the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at No. 16, and reached No. 7 on the Adult Contemporary chart, showcasing its broad appeal across multiple audiences.

Born in Robbinsville, North Carolina, in 1943, Ronnie Milsap faced the challenge of congenital blindness from birth. Raised by his grandparents, he attended the State School for the Blind in Raleigh, where he developed a deep passion for music, mastering instruments like the piano and violin. His early exposure to diverse musical genres, from classical to gospel, laid the foundation for his versatile musical style.

The inspiration for “It Was Almost Like a Song” came from the collaboration between songwriter Archie Jordan and lyricist Hal David. Jordan, a relatively unknown songwriter at the time, had the melody in mind and, through the arrangement of producer Tom Collins, teamed up with the seasoned David to craft the poignant lyrics. The song’s narrative, reflecting on a fleeting yet impactful love affair, resonated with many listeners.

Recording took place in April 1977, with Milsap and Collins co-producing the track. The arrangement featured a blend of country instrumentation with pop sensibilities, including lush string sections and Milsap’s emotive piano playing. This combination created a sound that was both familiar to country fans and accessible to a broader pop audience.

Upon its release in May 1977, the song received widespread acclaim. It quickly climbed the charts, becoming Milsap’s eighth No. 1 on the country chart and his first significant crossover hit. The success of the single was further bolstered by the album of the same name, which reached No. 3 on the Country album charts and broke into the Top 100 of the Billboard 200, peaking at No. 97. The album was eventually certified Gold and won “Album of the Year” at the 1978 Country Music Association Awards.

The cultural impact of “It Was Almost Like a Song” was profound. It challenged the traditional boundaries of country music, demonstrating that the genre could successfully incorporate pop elements without losing its core identity. This paved the way for future artists to explore and blend genres, leading to the evolution of country-pop as a recognized and celebrated subgenre.

For Milsap, the song was a turning point. It expanded his fan base beyond the country music scene, leading to increased radio play on pop and adult contemporary stations. This broader exposure opened doors for collaborations and performances that might have previously been out of reach, solidifying his status as a versatile and influential artist.

The song’s influence extended beyond Milsap’s own career. It inspired other country artists to experiment with crossover styles, leading to a wave of country-pop hits in the subsequent decades. The success of such tracks highlighted the commercial viability of genre-blending in the music industry.

Over the years, “It Was Almost Like a Song” has been covered by various artists, including Dionne Warwick and The King’s Singers, each bringing their unique interpretation to the classic. These renditions attest to the song’s enduring appeal and its ability to resonate across different musical styles and audiences.

At the time of the song’s release, Milsap was already an established artist with several hits to his name. However, the crossover success of this track elevated his profile significantly, leading to greater recognition and accolades, including multiple Grammy Awards and his eventual induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame.

Decades later, the legacy of “It Was Almost Like a Song” endures. It remains a staple on classic country and adult contemporary playlists, and its influence is evident in the works of artists who continue to blur the lines between genres. The song’s timeless quality and emotional depth ensure its place in the pantheon of great American music.

In retrospect, “It Was Almost Like a Song” not only marked a high point in Ronnie Milsap’s illustrious career but also signaled a shift in the musical landscape, where blending genres became a pathway to innovation and broader audience engagement. Its success story serves as an inspiration for artists aiming to transcend traditional musical boundaries.