Charley Pride – She’s Too Good To Be True: The Song That Held a Quiet Secret
Among Charley Pride’s impressive catalog of country hits, “She’s Too Good To Be True” stands out not because it’s loud or chart-shattering, but because of its quiet intensity. Released in 1972, this tender ballad quickly climbed to number one on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, capturing hearts with its disarming honesty and gentle melody.
But behind the song’s sweetness lies a story many never heard.
At the time of its release, Charley Pride was at the peak of his career. Yet according to those close to him, the period was emotionally complex. It was during this time that he recorded this seemingly simple love song — a track that fans and insiders alike have often described as a personal message, wrapped in music.
Many believe the song was dedicated to his wife, Rozene, who had been by his side since the early days and remained his partner through all the fame and chaos. But others whispered of a long-lost love, a one-sided story, or perhaps a fleeting moment that left a lasting imprint on his heart.
Charley never confirmed any of it. When asked directly, he would smile and say, “Some things are better left in the music.” And perhaps he was right.
The lyrics of “She’s Too Good To Be True” are deceptively simple: a man marvels at a woman who seems almost unreal in her grace and goodness. But the performance – restrained, warm, and a touch wistful – suggests something deeper. It feels like a confession, a memory, or even a regret.
In a career filled with trailblazing achievements, including over 30 No.1 hits and breaking racial barriers in country music, it’s remarkable that such a quiet ballad remains one of Pride’s most beloved songs.
Even in his later concerts, Pride never failed to include it, often introducing it with a soft nod or a smile that seemed to say more than words ever could.
“She’s Too Good To Be True” isn’t just a love song. It’s a mystery, a diary entry never fully read aloud, and a testament to the man behind the music – tender, thoughtful, and, perhaps, quietly haunted by a memory only he understood.
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Lyrics
Sometimes late at night I wake up dreamingI reach and feel for her she’s too good to be trueThen I touch the sleeping softness of my angelAnd half asleep she turns to whisper I love youCause she’s just too good to be true but she isAnd in my arms she reassures me with a kissShe’s everything I ever looked for in a womanShe’s just too good to be true but she isEach day I go to work is like forever till that evening sun will bring me home againBut then she’s a waitin’ at the door with her sweet lovin’And tonight she’ll be so good to me againCause she’s just too good…She’s just too good to be true but she is