The only boy who could ever teach me/
Was the son of a preacher man.

I think Dusty Springfield’s version of “Son of a Preacher Man” is considered the better version, but if you prefer Aretha’s I won’t fault you. Dusty’s interpretation is much more reserved. There are no vocal theatrics. I prefer her sultry voice to Aretha’s gospely voice.

The song is an ode to Preacher’s Sons. I have known several preacher’s sons in real life, and what is described in the song is what really happens. The respectability that their father has gained and earned is associated with them (usually for no reason). Coupled with the communal aspect of Christianity, many of these Preacher’s sons turn out to be “smooth talking” boys who are good with the ladies. Young girls trust them because they trust their dad. What could go wrong?

It is a fun song. I don’t think the meaning of Song of a Preacher Man is what people think it is. It is not saying preacher’s sons are good because Christian boys are good. It is saying be careful of preacher’s sons, they’re the real ladies men.

Son of a Preacher Man Lyrics

Billy Ray was the preacher’s son
And when his daddy would visit he’d come along
When they gathered ’round and started talkin’
That’s when Billy would take me walkin’
Out through the back yard we’d go walkin’
Then he’d look into my eyes
Lord knows, to my surprise

The only one who could ever reach me
Was the son of a preacher man
The only boy who could ever teach me
Was the son of a preacher man
Yes, he was, he was, ooh, yes, he was

Being good isn’t always easy
No matter how hard I try
When he started sweet-talkin’ to me
He’d come and tell me, “Everything is alright”
He’d kiss and tell me, “Everything is alright”
Can I get away again tonight?

The only one who could ever reach me
Was the son of a preacher man
The only boy who could ever teach me
Was the son of a preacher man
Yes, he was, he was, ooh, Lord knows, he was (yes, he was)

How well I remember
The look that was in his eyes
Stealin’ kisses from me on the sly
Takin’ time to make time
Tellin’ me that he’s all mine
Learnin’ from each other’s knowin’
Lookin’ to see how much we’ve grown and

The only one who could ever reach me
Was the son of a preacher man
The only boy who could ever teach me
Was the son of a preacher man
Yes, he was, he was, oh, yes, he was

He was the sweet-talkin’ son of a preacher man
(The only boy who could ever teach me)
I kissed even son of a preacher man
(The only one who could ever reach me)
The sweet-lovin’ son of a preacher man
(The only one who could ever reach me)
(Was the son of a preacher man)
(The only one who could ever reach me)
(Was the son of a preacher man)

Songwriters: John Hurley / Ronnie Wilkins