Lyric discussion by grogley 

Cover art for Son Of A Preacher Man (Dusty Springfield cover) lyrics by Aretha Franklin

This song holds a very special place in my heart. I am a son of a preacher man and growing up hearing this song made me think that I too one day would be smooth enough to steal kisses from the object of my desire. Unfortunately, I have always been totally disarmed by women and certainly never acquired the moves needed to compete with Billy Ray mentioned in the song (probably just as well as I have been married for 28 years in a couple of days).

I am not sure if I heard Dusty’s or Aretha’s version first but Aretha’s version is the one version I own and hear all the time. What a great vocal by Aretha as she seems to be totally disarmed by that wolf Billy Ray. Helpless in his power she seems more resigned to her emotions than what I remember from Dusty. Both renditions are wonderful.