Rings (1971) 8/14/20

Today's “Great Song of the '70s” is a very specific wedding song.

Eddie Reeves and Alex Harvey, both employed by United Artists Music, set out to write a wedding song for their friend, Bob Hamilton. Bob and his fiance had gone through some rough spots, but love conquered all, and the wedding was set to take place at Venice Beach in California. Eddie and Alex lyrically recapped the romance, peppering the song with references they knew Bob and his wife-to-be would understand.

Needless to say "Rings" was a big hit with the couple and everyone who attended the wedding.

Eddie then used his music connections to pitch the song to guitarist Lonnie Mack, who recorded it, but didn't release it as a single. Hamilton, on the other hand, “was not gonna miss his shot!” (See what I did there?)

He pitched it to well-known producer Chips Moman, who had just put together a Memphis recording group called Cymarron and was looking for material to record.

A deal was made, the song was recorded, and in 1971, the song about Bob Hamilton's wedding went to #6 on Billboard's Easy Listening chart, and #17 on the Hot 100. The fact that Hamilton was a consultant for several radio stations probably helped get some airplay. :-)

Also in 1971, Tompall Glaser recorded a “twangy” country version that reached #7 on Billboard's Country Chart.

I now pronounce “Rings” a “Great Song of the '70s!” You may click the links.

Cymarron:

Tompall Glaser: