About the song
“Once a Day” is a song that firmly cemented Connie Smith’s place in country music history. Written by the prolific Bill Anderson, this track was recorded as Smith’s debut single in 1964 and became an instant classic. Produced by Bob Ferguson, “Once a Day” was featured on her self-titled debut album. The song’s release marked a significant milestone as it skyrocketed to the top of the Billboard country music chart, where it held the number one position for eight consecutive weeks from late 1964 to early 1965. This remarkable achievement made Smith the first female artist to debut at number one on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart with a single.
The song’s success was a testament to Smith’s vocal talent and Anderson’s songwriting prowess. Anderson, a renowned country artist himself, wrote “Once a Day” specifically for Smith, recognizing her potential to deliver the song’s poignant lyrics with the depth and emotion they required. The track, recorded on July 16, 1964, at RCA Victor’s Studio B in Nashville, featured accompaniment from the esteemed Nashville A-Team of musicians, including members of Anderson’s touring band, The Po’ Boys.
“Once a Day” tells the story of a woman who continues to grieve the loss of her lover. Despite her declaration that she limits her sorrow to “once a day,” it becomes clear that her heartache is a constant companion. This theme of enduring heartbreak resonated deeply with listeners, making the song relatable and emotionally impactful.
Upon its release on August 1, 1964, “Once a Day” quickly climbed the charts, peaking at number one on November 28, 1964, and maintaining its position for eight weeks—a record for a female solo artist that stood for nearly 50 years until surpassed by Taylor Swift in 2012. The song’s commercial success was unprecedented, selling over one million copies and earning Smith widespread acclaim. It was also nominated for Best Country Song at the Grammy Awards, further solidifying its status as a country music staple.
The song’s legacy continued to grow as it was selected for preservation in the National Recording Registry by the Library of Congress in 2020, recognizing its cultural, historical, and aesthetic significance. “Once a Day” not only launched Connie Smith’s career but also influenced countless artists and remains a beloved classic in the genre.
Smith’s subsequent releases, including “Then and Only Then” and other top ten hits, ensured her continued success in the music industry. However, it is “Once a Day” that remains a defining moment in her career, exemplifying her exceptional vocal ability and the timeless appeal of heartfelt country music.
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Lyrics
When you found somebody new
I thought I never would
Forget you for I thought then I never could
But time has taken all the pains away
Until now, I’m down to hurtin’ once a day
Once a day (once a day)
All-day long (all day long)
And once a night (once a night)
From dusk ’til dawn (dusk ’til dawn)
The only time
I wish you weren’t gone
Is once a day, every day, all day long
I’m so glad that I’m not like a girl I knew one time
She lost the one she loved then slowly lost her mind
She sat around and cried her life away
Lucky me, I’m only cryin’ once a day
Once a day (once a day)
All-day long (all day long)
And once a night (once a night)
From dusk ’til dawn (dusk ’til dawn)
The only time
I wish you weren’t gone
Is once a day, every day, all day long
Once a day, every day, all day long