Williams was inspired to write the song while returning from a concert by a remark his mother made while they were arriving in Montgomery, Alabama.

Williams' version did not enjoy major success during its initial release, but eventually it became one of his most popular songs and the closing number for his live shows.

Williams, who slept inebriated in the backseat of the car, was roused by his mother, who told him "I just saw the light", announcing to him that they were close to Montgomery.

[6] The lyrics and the melody by Williams closely resembled Albert E. Brumley's "He Set Me Free", published in 1939 and released in March 1941 by the Chuck Wagon Gang.

Country-music biographer Colin Escott wrote, "Her duets with Hank were like an extension of their married life in that she fought him for dominance on every note."

[15] Boys' Life favored the record, stating: "It's a typical Hank Williams lament, which you western and hillbilly fans will eat up".

[16] Hank Williams first appeared on the Kate Smith Evening Hour on March 26, 1952, and joined in with the rest of the cast singing "I Saw The Light."

The song is referenced in George Jones' 1985 single, "Who's Gonna Fill Their Shoes", using the line, "You can tell it when he sang "I Saw The Light"