That Happy Night
The Stanley Brothers · Early Starday-King Years 1958-1961 [1995]
But she waits alone there just for me
I'll be going back some day and I never more will stray
From that girl who stood by me
I've about forgot the tune and the West Virginia moon
But the North Carolina moon is just as bright
I'll n'er forget the time you promised to be mine
The moon was shining down that happy night
When I left her all alone in our little mountain home
I never thought of the day I'd return
Now I'm coming back to you love I know you've been true
What a price I've paid to live and learn
That Happy Night
That Happy Night stands as a testament to the Stanley Brothers' mastery of traditional bluegrass during their prolific tenure with Starday and King Records. Recorded in the late 1950s, the track captures the duo's signature high-energy instrumentation and the piercing, emotive harmony that defined their sound. Ralph Stanley's distinctive baritone anchors the performance, while Carter Stanley's tenor provides the soaring counterpoint that became a hallmark of their style. This recording reflects the brothers' ability to blend gospel-inflected themes with driving instrumental breaks, showcasing the tight interplay between banjo, fiddle, and guitar that characterized their early work. As part of a broader discography that helped solidify the bluegrass genre, the song remains a cherished example of their contribution to American roots music, offering listeners a glimpse into the vibrant era of their most influential recordings.