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Introduction
“The Snakes Crawl At Night” by Charley Pride is one of those songs that lingers in your mind long after you’ve heard it. Released in the mid-1960s, this song marked one of the early stepping stones in Pride’s illustrious career. It carries the weight of storytelling, the kind that makes you lean in a little closer, as if you’re hearing a dark, intriguing tale from a trusted friend.
The song tells the story of a man trapped in a web of jealousy and betrayal, leading to a fateful and irreversible act. There’s something gripping about the way the song unfolds, like watching a film noir, only instead of black and white visuals, it’s Charley’s deep, rich voice that paints the picture. The title alone, “The Snakes Crawl At Night,” hints at deceit and danger lurking in the shadows, and the lyrics don’t disappoint.
What sets this song apart isn’t just the narrative—it’s the way Charley Pride delivers it. His voice brings a sense of raw emotion and authenticity, making you feel every bit of the protagonist’s heartbreak and fury. There’s a tension that builds with every line, pulling the listener deeper into the story of love gone wrong. By the end of the song, you almost feel the weight of the choices made, and the haunting realization that, like the snakes in the night, treachery can strike when least expected.
For Pride, this song was more than just another release—it was a bold introduction to the world. At the time, country music was still deeply rooted in tradition, and Charley Pride, as one of the few African-American artists in the genre, faced challenges that would have been insurmountable for many. Yet, his undeniable talent, combined with songs like “The Snakes Crawl At Night,” carved out a place for him in country music history.
What makes this song even more remarkable is its ability to resonate with listeners across time. The themes of love, betrayal, and moral consequence are universal, and they’re wrapped in a haunting melody that sticks with you. Every listen feels like a new discovery, with layers of meaning and emotion waiting to be unraveled.
Video
Lyrics
All te snakes crawl at night that’s what they say
When the sun goes down then the sneaks will play
I watched that car pull right up into my driveway
Saw a shadow slip away from my house
So I hurried straight and looked in her room
And I found out that it was my loving spouse
All te snakes crawl at night…
So I waited in the shadows until morning and the gun I held was trembling in my hand
No I did not plan to give them any warning
Cause the devil on my shoulder had command
All te snakes crawl at night…
Oh the trial in a little while was over and they sentenced me to die right away
But before I leave this courtroom please Your Honor
There’s something more that I would like to say
All te snakes crawl at night…
All te snakes crawl at night…