“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
Some songs manage to capture our hearts with a simple charm and a message that resonates universally. Close Enough to Perfect by Alabama is one of those rare pieces. First hitting the airwaves in the early 1980s, this song quickly became a fan favorite. Its gentle melodies and relatable lyrics evoke a sense of appreciation for the imperfections in love, reminding us that sometimes “close enough” really is perfect. In a way, this song gives us permission to embrace love in its real, messy form—a message that remains timeless.
About The Composition
- Title: Close Enough to Perfect
- Composer: Carl Chambers
- Premiere Date: Released in August 1982
- Album: Mountain Music
- Genre: Country
Background
Originally recorded by Alabama, Close Enough to Perfect is a tender country ballad that showcases the band’s knack for blending smooth, heartfelt lyrics with melody-driven instrumentation. Written by Carl Chambers, the song was included in Alabama’s 1982 album, Mountain Music, a record that solidified the band’s standing in the country music world. The song reflects a common theme in country music: finding beauty in imperfections and loving wholeheartedly. The sincerity in its lyrics connected instantly with fans, making it a standout track that climbed the country charts and earned Alabama a place in listeners’ hearts across generations.
Musical Style
Close Enough to Perfect is defined by its soft, easy-going tempo and understated arrangement. The song’s simplicity is key to its appeal, allowing the lyrics to take center stage. Alabama’s arrangement highlights gentle guitar strums, subtle drums, and a light keyboard presence that together create a warm, soothing soundscape. Randy Owen’s lead vocals, known for their tender yet powerful delivery, infuse the song with a heartfelt sincerity. This minimalistic approach allows listeners to focus on the emotions and themes woven through the lyrics, making the song feel intimate and genuine.
Lyrics
The lyrics of Close Enough to Perfect focus on the theme of acceptance and appreciation in love. The lines reveal a story of someone reflecting on their partner’s quirks, flaws, and virtues, ultimately acknowledging that their “imperfections” make them perfect. The narrative speaks to a mature understanding of love—recognizing that true connection isn’t about finding someone without flaws but rather someone whose flaws make them even more endearing. This lyrical theme has made the song relatable to couples who see beauty in their unique journey together, imperfections and all.
Performance History
Since its release, Close Enough to Perfect has been a staple in Alabama’s live performances, consistently evoking emotional responses from audiences. It became the band’s eighth number-one hit on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart in the U.S., solidifying its popularity. Over the years, it’s been covered by other artists and performed at various events, from intimate settings to larger country music festivals, proving its universal appeal. Each performance brings out a unique quality in the song, with different artists and musicians offering their interpretation, but always preserving its emotional essence.
Cultural Impact
Beyond its success on the charts, Close Enough to Perfect has woven itself into the cultural fabric of country music, resonating with fans as a love anthem that values authenticity. It has been featured in various country music compilations and playlists, serving as a gentle reminder of the genre’s power to convey deep, everyday emotions. The song’s themes of love, acceptance, and admiration have made it a popular choice for weddings, anniversaries, and celebrations of enduring love, cementing its place as more than just a chart-topper.
Legacy
Today, Close Enough to Perfect remains a classic in Alabama’s discography and in the country music canon. Its themes still resonate in an era where social expectations and ideals often set impossibly high standards. The song invites listeners to appreciate what’s real and authentic, reminding us that true connection doesn’t lie in perfection but in understanding and acceptance. Decades after its release, Close Enough to Perfect continues to reach new listeners, connecting them to the heart and soul of Alabama’s music.
Conclusion
Listening to Close Enough to Perfect feels like receiving a gentle reminder that life and love don’t have to be flawless to be fulfilling. The beauty in Alabama’s rendition, coupled with Carl Chambers’ insightful lyrics, makes this song a timeless reflection on love’s simple truths. If you haven’t yet, take a moment to listen to Alabama’s recording on the Mountain Music album—you might find it speaks to you in ways that only a heartfelt country song can.
Video
Lyrics
Sometimes her morning coffee’s way too strong
And sometimes what she says she says all wrong
But right or wrong, she’s there beside me
Like only a friend would be
And that’s close enough to perfect for me
Now, she’s been known to wear her pants too tight
And drinkin’ puts her out just like a light
Heaven knows she’s not an angel
But she’d really like to be
And that’s close enough to perfect for me
She kisses me each mornin’
And smiles her sleepy smile
And she don’t have to say it
I can see it in her eyes
Don’t you worry about my woman
And what you think she ought to be
She’s close enough to perfect for me!
Sometimes she gets down and starts to cry
But then again, a lady has a right
She’s everything I ever wanted
She’s all I’ll ever need
She’s close enough to perfect for me
She kisses me each mornin’
And smiles her sleepy smile!
And she don’t have to say it
I can see it in her eyes
Don’t you worry about my woman
And what you think she ought to be
She’s close enough to perfect for me!
Whoa, oh, she’s close enough to perfect
For me