According to the country music historian Colin Escott, Claude Boone, who played guitar for the Knoxville bluegrass star Carl Story, bought the song for 25 dollars from James Arthur Pritchett, a local musician and drunk who performed under the name “Arthur Q. Smith”. The song’s narrator describes his...
[Verse 1]
I have the invitation that you sent me
You wanted me to see you change your name
I couldn't stand to see you wed another
But dear, I hope you're happy just the same
[Chorus]
Wedding bells are ringing in the chapel
That should be ringing out for you and me
Down the aisle with someone else you're walking
Those wedding bells will never ring for me
[Verse 2]
I planned a little cottage in the valley
I even bought a little band of gold
I thought some day I'd place it on your finger
But now the future looks so dark and cold
[Chorus]
Wedding bells are ringing in the chapel
I hear the children laughing out with glee
At home alone I hang my head in sorrow
For wedding bells will never ring for me
[Verse 3]
I fancy that I see a bunch of roses
A blossom from an orange tree in your hair
While the organ plays "I Love You Truly"
Please let me pretend that I am there
[Chorus]
Wedding bells are ringing in the chapel
Ever since the day you set me free
I knew someday that you would wed another
But wedding bells will never ring for me
Wedding Bells was written by Claude Boone.
Wedding Bells was produced by Wesley Rose & Fred Rose.
Hank Williams released Wedding Bells on Sun Mar 20 1949.