“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
Have you ever come across a song that feels like a quiet conversation between your heart and the world? Alabama’s Close Enough to Perfect is just that—a tender ode to love’s imperfections and the beauty of finding contentment in someone just the way they are. For many, this song has become a nostalgic reminder of simpler times and profound emotions, a hallmark of Alabama’s heartfelt storytelling.
About the Composition
- Title: Close Enough to Perfect
- Composer: Carl Chambers
- Premiere Date: Released in August 1982 as a single
- Album: Mountain Music
- Genre: Country Ballad
Background
Close Enough to Perfect is one of Alabama’s most beloved songs, featured on their award-winning album Mountain Music. Written by Carl Chambers, the song became the band’s seventh No. 1 hit on the U.S. Billboard Hot Country Singles chart. Its release in 1982 marked a period when Alabama was redefining the country music landscape by blending traditional country storytelling with soft rock influences, appealing to both country purists and mainstream audiences.
The song’s lyrics reflect a universal theme: unconditional love and acceptance. Chambers penned a deeply personal narrative, resonating with listeners who value relationships grounded in understanding and authenticity. When Alabama performed this track, they brought Chambers’ words to life with Randy Owen’s signature emotive vocals and the band’s rich harmonies, solidifying its place in their legacy.
Musical Style
The song is a quintessential country ballad, characterized by its gentle, flowing rhythm and understated instrumentation. The arrangement includes soft acoustic guitar strumming, delicate piano accompaniments, and subtle steel guitar riffs that add a wistful charm to the track. Randy Owen’s warm, soulful voice carries the song, conveying vulnerability and sincerity that resonates deeply with the listener.
The structure of Close Enough to Perfect is simple yet effective, emphasizing the lyrics’ intimacy. The melodies are soothing, almost lullaby-like, enhancing the song’s contemplative nature. This musical simplicity allows the heartfelt message to take center stage.
Lyrics
The lyrics of Close Enough to Perfect celebrate the small imperfections that make a person unique. Lines like “She kisses me each morning / And smiles her sleepy smile” and “She’s good at everything she does / She’s close enough to perfect for me” reflect the everyday moments that define love. These themes are universal, reminding listeners that perfection is often found in accepting someone as they are, flaws and all.
Performance History
Since its release, Close Enough to Perfect has remained a staple in Alabama’s live performances. Fans often regard it as one of the band’s most emotionally impactful songs, with audiences swaying along to its soothing rhythm and heartfelt message. The song’s chart-topping success in 1982 further cemented its place in Alabama’s repertoire as a fan favorite.
Over the years, the song has also been covered by aspiring artists and featured in various nostalgic playlists, keeping its legacy alive among both older and newer generations.
Cultural Impact
While deeply rooted in the country genre, Close Enough to Perfect transcended boundaries by appealing to a wide audience. Its relatable message and heartfelt delivery made it a wedding and anniversary favorite, and it has often been referenced in discussions about songs that celebrate love’s imperfections.
The track’s emotional depth and simplicity have ensured its enduring appeal, showcasing how timeless themes like love and acceptance can resonate across decades.
Legacy
Close Enough to Perfect continues to hold a special place in the hearts of Alabama fans and country music lovers alike. Its timeless message, coupled with the band’s heartfelt performance, ensures its relevance even today. Whether revisited by long-time fans or discovered by new listeners, the song remains a poignant reminder of love’s quiet beauty.
Conclusion
Listening to Close Enough to Perfect feels like a warm embrace, a gentle reminder of the beauty in imperfection. It’s a song that invites reflection, encouraging us to cherish those we love for who they truly are.
If you haven’t yet experienced the magic of this track, I recommend Alabama’s original recording from Mountain Music. Let it play on a quiet evening, and you might find yourself smiling at its simplicity and profound message. After all, sometimes, close enough to perfect is exactly what we need.
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