Introduction
The Oak Ridge Boys: Finding Their Own “You’re The One”
“You’re The One” by the Oak Ridge Boys might sound like a signature country love ballad, but its path to becoming a hit involved a genre shift and a bit of inspiration from another country legend.
The Oak Ridge Boys, originally a gospel quartet, started incorporating secular music in the mid-70s. Their 1977 album, “Y’all Come Back Saloon,” marked this transition, and “You’re The One” was the second single released from it.
The song itself wasn’t written by the Oak Ridge Boys. Country songwriter Bob Morrison penned it, and interestingly, Glen Campbell had already recorded his own version on his 1973 album “I Knew Jesus (Before He Was a Star)”. The Oak Ridge Boys’ rendition, however, took the song in a different direction.
Their signature four-part harmonies, a staple throughout their career, brought a new energy to “You’re The One.” It became a hit, reaching number two on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart in 1978. This success solidified the Oak Ridge Boys’ move into country music and paved the way for a string of future hits that would solidify their place as country music legends.
So, the next time you hear “You’re The One,” remember that it’s not just a love song, but a turning point in the Oak Ridge Boys’ remarkable musical journey. It’s a testament to their ability to adapt and find their own voice, even when taking inspiration from established artists.