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Introduction

If there’s a song that feels like a hug from the past, it’s “Once a Day.” Sung by Connie Smith, this timeless classic isn’t just another country hit; it’s a heartfelt anthem for anyone who’s ever dealt with love and loss. Released in 1964, it catapulted Smith to fame, making her the first female country artist to debut at number one on the charts—a record that stood for decades. But what makes this song truly special is how it speaks to the universal pain of heartache with a quiet strength and undeniable grace.

Written by the legendary Bill Anderson, “Once a Day” captures that bittersweet moment when a love you’ve lost still lingers, but just enough to remind you of what once was. It’s not about complete devastation; it’s about the slow, steady journey to healing. Smith’s delivery is pure magic, blending vulnerability and resilience in every note. Her voice feels like a friend’s—someone who’s been there, someone who understands.

The melody is simple yet unforgettable, carrying an almost conversational tone that makes it feel like Smith is singing directly to you. And isn’t that the beauty of country music? It wraps its arms around your story, making your experiences feel seen, heard, and validated.

“Once a Day” became a hallmark of the Nashville Sound, with its lush instrumentation and polished production. But at its core, it’s all about emotion—raw, real, and utterly relatable. It’s a song you play when you’re on the mend, when you’re trying to remind yourself that, yes, it’s okay to feel the sting as long as you know it won’t last forever

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Lyrics

When you found somebody new
I thought, I never would
Forget you for I felt I never could
But time is taking all the pain away
Until now I’m done to hurt you once a day

[Hook]
Once a day (once a day)
All day long (all day long)
And once a night (once a night)
From dusk till dawn (dusk till dawn)

The only time
I wish you were gone
Is once a day
Everyday
All day long

I’m so glad that I’m not like the girl I knew one time
She lost the one she loved
Then slowly lost her mind
She sat around and cried her life away
Look at me
I’m only hurting once a day

[Hook]