Introduction
Unveiling “You’re the One”: A Country Love Ballad by The Oak Ridge Boys
The Oak Ridge Boys’ “You’re the One” might be a country classic for many, but its roots trace back to another legendary singer-songwriter. While the smooth vocals and tight harmonies we associate with the song come courtesy of The Oak Ridge Boys, the original composition belonged to Bob Morrison.
Morrison penned the heartfelt ballad in 1973 and included it on his album “I Knew Jesus (Before He Was a Star)”. The song’s message of devotion and unwavering love struck a chord, particularly with Glen Campbell, who covered “You’re the One” for his own album that same year.
However, The Oak Ridge Boys, known for their longstanding career that straddled the line between Southern Gospel and country music, identified the song’s potential for a wider audience. In 1977, they released their rendition of “You’re the One” as the second single from their album “Y’all Come Back Saloon”. Their distinctive vocal blend, featuring the rich baritone of William Lee Golden and the soaring tenor of Joe Bonsall (until his passing in 2024), breathed new life into the song.
The Oak Ridge Boys’ version became a major hit, climbing to number two on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart. It solidified their place as country music stars and cemented “You’re the One” as a beloved country love ballad. The song continues to resonate with listeners today, a testament to the enduring power of a well-crafted love song, expertly delivered by one of country music’s most iconic groups.