America — Sister Golden Hair

Gerry Beckley

As I was listening to Gerry Beckley’s song, I was thinking of the podcast I have been working on, “The Wonder Clock (The Princess Golden Hair and the Black Raven)”. Beckley’s song seem to fit the story in my mind.

Podcast: Hi! I’m Gail Nobles, and I hope you’re enjoying the Wonder Clock. The most recent story you’ve heard has been chapter 6 The Princess Golden Hair and the Great Black Raven.

“Once upon a time there was a king who had 3 daughters and the youngest name was Golden Hair, was the prettiest maiden to be found within the four ends of the earth.” _____ Howard Pyle “The Wonder Clock”

Now lets talk about the song by the band America from their fifth album Hearts in 1975 written by Gerry Beckley titled Sister Golden Hair. It was their second single to reach number one on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100, remaining in the top position for one week. Beckly says:

“There was no actual sister gold hair. The lyrics were inspired by the works of Jackson Browne. It was that style of his that led to a song of mine Sister Golden Hair.”

Gerry Beckly said he played the 12 string guitar and overdubbled the prominent slide guitar. I love the sound of that slide guitar.

(Annoucer making sound)

I love the lyrics also of Sister Golden Hair.

Well I tried to make it Sunday, but I got so damn depressed
That I set my sights on Monday and I got myself undressed
I ain’t ready for the altar but I do agree there’s times
When a woman sure can be a friend of mine
Well, I keep on thinkin’ ‘bout you, sister golden hair surprise
And I just can’t live without you, can’t you see it in my eyes? …

America “Sister Golden Hair” has been today’s topic. And you’ll be hearing more story of the Wonder Clock about Princes Golden Hair.

And as for the great black Raven, it was a Raven no longer, but the handsome Prince in all of the world … He kissed the princess golden hair and said: “Now indeed have I found my true bride and none other …”_____ Howard Pyle “The Wonder Clock”