"Sweet Music Man" is a song written and recorded by American musician Kenny Rogers. It appears on his 1977 album Daytime Friends, and it was released as the last single from the album.

History

In 1977, the song reached number 9 on the Billboard country music charts and number 44 on the Billboard Hot 100. It also reached number 1 on the Canadian country and adult contemporary charts published by RPM. The song peaked on both charts during the week of December 31, 1977. Rogers used the song as a B-side for two of his later singles: "Lady" in 1980 and "You Were a Good Friend" in 1983.

Later in 1977, Dolly Parton included the song on her album Here You Come Again. Parton and Alison Krauss performed the song together at a 2010 concert at Foxwoods Casino to honor Rogers' 50 years in entertainment. Reba McEntire covered the song in 2001 on her album Greatest Hits Volume III: I'm a Survivor. Her version was released as a single and reached number 36 on the country music charts. At that time, it was her lowest-peaking single since "(I Still Long to Hold You) Now and Then" in 1980.

Over the years, many other artists have performed the song, including Tammy Wynette, Dottie West, Billie Jo Spears, Waylon Jennings, Anne Murray, Johnny Hallyday, and Millie Jackson.

Critical reception

Kip Kirby, a reviewer from Billboard magazine, gave the song a positive review. She said the song features a very good singing performance by Rogers and a production style that blends pop music, which may help the song be successful in both country and pop music. She also noted that the song includes good guitar playing, flowing string music, and Rogers' strong singing voice, which help the song build up to a satisfying ending.