During the 1950s and 1960s, Marty Robbins songs dominated – not only on the country charts but as well as the pop chart, making him one of the most successful crossover artists of his generation. It’s fascinating how Robbins’ versatile baritone allowed him to pick up a vast variety of musical styles.
But perhaps what most folks remember about him the most is that he was not merely a singer but was a genuine showman on stage. He was especially well-known for his relationship with his fans, who called themselves “Marty’s Army.”
It was no longer a surprise that Marty Robbins charted over ninety singles on different music charts – in which sixteen of them peaked at No. 1. Pretty impressive, isn’t it? So, without further ado, let’s take a look at some of his best hits. Keep on scrolling below!
1. El Paso
Believe it or not, this ode to a Western saga filled with drama, violence, and romance was written by Robbins in a car while he and his family traveled from Texas on the way to Arizona.
“El Paso” became one of his most successful hits, reaching No. 1 on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart and even landed him his first Grammy award ever – in the category of Best Country & Western Performance. In 1998, the song was also inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame.
2. Don’t Worry
“Don’t Worry” is another sad song of a man who knows his relationship is about to end. In addition to topping the country chart, it was also one of Robbins’ most successful crossover hits, peaking at No. 3 on Billboard Hot 100.
But what makes this heartbreaker interesting is the electrical fault during the recording process that impacted more than the country and pop charts at the time. Apparently, session guitarist Grady Martin used a faulty channel in the mixing desk that created a distorted, fuzzy sound. While Robbins did not like it, the sound sparked the rock revolution of the 60s.
3. Among My Souvenirs
This song has been covered by many artists – with Robbins’ version being one of the most notable ones. “Among My Souvenirs” was actually his last No. 1 on the country charts.
4. Ain’t I Right
Robbins wrote the song during the cold war, more particularly at the time of the Vietnam war, as a support to the Americans. The anti-communism is pretty apparent in the song’s lyrics, wherein it branded the anti-war protesters as a communist.
Indeed, the song was so bold that Columbia Records refused to release it, saying it was too provoking and political.
5. Just Married
Written by Barry De Vorzon and Al Allen, “Just Married” is not your usual love story. It actually tells the story of a man who watches the woman he loves, getting married to another man. While he looked at her head over heels and delighted with her new milestone, he was dying slowly inside.
Well, it may not have the happy ending we’re hoping for, but it sure resonates with many fans.
6. My Woman, My Woman, My Wife
Robbins specially wrote this romantic ballad for his wife, Marizona Baldwin, whom he married in 1945. Not only did it spend a single week atop Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart, but it also helped him win Best Country Song during the Grammy Awards.
More notably, Robbins became one of the first people to go through a triple arterial bypass – or more known today as open-heart surgery – just four days after “My Woman, My Woman, My Wife” was released as a single.
7. Big Iron
Here’s another song written by Robbins where he showed he’s one true cowboy! “Big Iron” tells the story of a duel between an Arizona Ranger and an outlaw named Texas Red. Being one of the most notorious outlaws of the Wild West, the townspeople believed the ranger was no match for Texas Red.
Much to their surprise, the ranger’s draw was so swift, killing Texas Red in one shot.
8. I Couldn’t Keep From Crying
Here’s a true cowboy standard that was written by Robbins himself.
Like most of his songs, you will hear a beautiful blend of ukulele and stories you will only learn around a campfire. What’s even more remarkable is that Robbins effortlessly captures the sorrowful tune.
In 1960, Johnny Cash released a version of the song off his album, Now, There Was a Song!
More Marty Robbins Songs From His Stylistically Diverse Career
With such a massive song catalog, there’s a lot more you need to hear – especially Robbins’ love for the Old West. Check them out below.
So, which among these are your favorites?
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Marty Robbins