Marty Stuart, a name synonymous with authentic country music, boasts a career spanning over five decades. His journey through the industry includes collaborations with legends, exploration of diverse sounds, and a steadfast commitment to the genre’s roots. Narrowing down his extensive catalog to just 20 essential tracks is a challenge, but we’ve undertaken the task to celebrate the very best Marty Stuart Songs.
Here’s a curated list of Marty Stuart’s finest work, showcasing his evolution and enduring impact on country music.
20. Arlene
“Arlene” marks a pivotal moment in Marty Stuart’s career as his debut single. Released in 1985 from his self-titled album Marty Stuart with Columbia Records, this track introduced audiences to his storytelling prowess. It’s a classic country narrative of forbidden love, painting a vivid picture of Marty’s infatuation with Arlene, complete with the drama of a disapproving, shotgun-wielding father and clandestine romance. The song’s traditional country sound and relatable theme of young love made it a memorable introduction to Marty Stuart’s artistry.
Marty Stuart Arlene single cover
19. The Bluebirds Are Singing for Me
While versions by Mac Wiseman and the Osborne Brothers are widely recognized, Marty Stuart’s rendition of “The Bluebirds Are Singing for Me” holds special significance. This live recording, captured during his time with Lester Flatt’s band, showcases a heartfelt connection between Stuart and his mentor. The recording opens with audio that reveals the deep affection shared by the two musicians, adding an emotional layer to this classic bluegrass tune. This version highlights Marty’s early bluegrass influences and his respect for the genre’s traditions.
Marty Stuart Arlene single cover
18. Farmer’s Blues
A powerful collaboration with country music icon Merle Haggard, “Farmer’s Blues” is a poignant duet co-written by Marty Stuart and his wife, Connie Smith. This song delves into the hardships faced by farmers, depicting the relentless cycle of labor and the constant struggle to make a living off the land. Haggard’s signature vocals, combined with Marty’s heartfelt delivery, bring authenticity to this tale of rural resilience. Notably, Merle Haggard even adds a yodel, enhancing the song’s melancholy and highlighting the unforgiving nature of farming. It’s a testament to Marty Stuart’s ability to address real-life issues within his music.
Marty Stuart Arlene single cover
17. There’s a Rainbow at the End of Every Storm
Religion and spirituality are recurring themes in Marty Stuart’s music. “There’s a Rainbow at the End of Every Storm” from his 2014 live album, The Gospel Music of Marty Stuart, explicitly brings his faith to the forefront. This uplifting gospel track reflects Marty’s optimistic outlook and his belief in eventual resolution and hope. Known for his positive demeanor, Marty Stuart embodies the message of this song, suggesting that his faith contributes to his grounded and amiable persona within the country music community. It showcases a different facet of Marty’s artistry, emphasizing his gospel roots and positive life philosophy.
Marty Stuart Arlene single cover
16. Hummingbyrd
“Hummingbyrd,” an instrumental track from the 2014 album Ghost Train: The Studio B Sessions, is a significant piece in Marty Stuart’s discography. He has cited The Byrds’ Sweetheart of the Rodeo as a blueprint for his musical direction, and this track directly pays homage to that influence. Recorded using Clarence White’s iconic telecaster, “Hummingbyrd” is not just a technical showcase but a loving tribute to country-rock history. It earned Marty Stuart a Grammy for Best Country Instrumental Performance, the last award given in that category, marking a bittersweet moment in his career and highlighting his instrumental prowess.
Marty Stuart Arlene single cover
15. Porter Wagoner’s Grave
“Porter Wagoner’s Grave” is an unconventional and haunting track, largely spoken word, dedicated to the legendary Porter Wagoner. Penned by Marty Stuart on his way home from Wagoner’s funeral, it’s a deeply personal and somewhat enigmatic tribute. The song’s eerie atmosphere and spoken delivery create a unique listening experience, reflecting on mortality and legacy. Marty’s lyric, “sometimes angels and strangers are one and the same,” encapsulates the song’s mysterious wisdom and his profound respect for Wagoner. It stands out as one of the most uniquely crafted Marty Stuart songs.
Marty Stuart Arlene single cover
14. Nightriding
From his recent album Altitude, “Nightriding” represents a persistent creative endeavor for Marty Stuart and his band, the Fabulous Superlatives. After two previous attempts to record this track for earlier albums, the third time proved to be the charm. This smooth, laid-back tune captures the feeling of cruising through city streets at night, embodying a cool and confident vibe. The lyrics about “cruising slow down the street, looking cool laid back in the seat” are perfectly complemented by the song’s easygoing rhythm, making it a standout track from his later work.
Marty Stuart Arlene single cover
13. Red, Red Wine and Cheatin’ Songs
“Red, Red Wine and Cheatin’ Songs” explores themes of heartbreak and relapse with a classic country twist. This track, enhanced by rousing backing vocals, tells the story of a narrator whose decade of sobriety is undone by romantic disappointment. The song vividly portrays the familiar country tropes of cigarette smoke, powder, and the fleeting comfort found in vices. While the narrator seeks solace in red wine and sad songs, the track subtly acknowledges that these remedies are ultimately insufficient for true healing, resonating with anyone familiar with the darker side of love and loss.
Marty Stuart Arlene single cover
12. Honky Tonkin’s What I Do Best (with Travis Tritt)
“Honky Tonkin’s What I Do Best,” a duet with Travis Tritt, celebrates the quintessential country music venue: the honky tonk. This upbeat party anthem highlights the joys of a Saturday night spent dancing and reveling in the lively atmosphere of a honky tonk. As one of several collaborations between Marty Stuart and Travis Tritt, this track exemplifies their musical chemistry and shared appreciation for traditional country themes. It’s a feel-good song that perfectly encapsulates the hedonistic fun and bright lights of honky-tonk culture.
Marty Stuart Arlene single cover
11. Doin’ My Time
Marty Stuart’s long-standing relationship with Johnny Cash is well-documented, including his time as Cash’s son-in-law and collaborator on the legendary Class of ’55 album. Their rendition of “Doin’ My Time” is a powerful testament to their musical connection. While this version amps up the guitars, Johnny Cash’s iconic presence looms large, especially when his unmistakable voice enters with a low, resonant hum. This collaboration underscores Marty Stuart’s deep respect for country music history and his ability to blend his style with that of his legendary peers.
Marty Stuart Arlene single cover
10. The Observations of a Crow
“The Observations of a Crow” is a darkly humorous and peculiar track from Marty Stuart’s 1999 concept album, The Pilgrim. Incorporating spoken word elements, the song was inspired by a solitary crow Marty encountered during a tour stop. This track uniquely explores heartbreak through the eyes of a crow, who finds romantic rivalry in an unexpected parakeet. The song’s unusual narrative and spoken-word delivery highlight Marty Stuart’s willingness to experiment and delve into unconventional storytelling within his music. It’s a testament to his creative depth and quirky sense of humor.
Marty Stuart Arlene single cover
9. Going, Going, Gone
“Going, Going, Gone” from the 2012 album Nashville, Vol. 1: Tear the Woodpile Down serves as a precursor to the sonic and lyrical directions Marty Stuart would explore in later albums like Way Out West and Altitude. The song features cosmic strings and introspective lyrics that ponder the fleeting nature of time. The foreboding message, “time is on your side until it’s going, going, gone,” is delivered with a blend of traditional country instrumentation and a modern, almost ethereal soundscape. This track signaled a new phase in Marty Stuart’s career, embracing a more expansive and philosophical approach to his music.
Marty Stuart Arlene single cover
8. Burn Me Down
“Burn Me Down,” a chart-topping single from the 1991 album Tempted, reached number 7 on the charts, marking one of Marty Stuart’s most commercially successful songs. This passionate track captures the intensity of overwhelming desire, portraying a love so fiery that it literally shakes the narrator to his core. Marty’s vocal delivery and the song’s energetic instrumentation effectively convey the feeling of being completely consumed by love and lust. “Burn Me Down” showcases Marty Stuart’s ability to blend traditional country sounds with a more contemporary, radio-friendly appeal.
Marty Stuart Arlene single cover
7. Country Boy Rock & Roll
Marty Stuart’s extensive list of collaborators includes his Fabulous Superlatives bandmate, guitarist Cousin Kenny Vaughan, with whom he shares a particularly enduring musical connection. “Country Boy Rock & Roll” exemplifies their seamless vocal and instrumental blend. This track is a high-energy celebration of country and rock and roll fusion, embodying the spirited and dynamic performances Marty Stuart and Cousin Kenny are known for. Their musical synergy is evident, making this song a standout example of their collaborative strength and Marty’s ability to bridge genres.
Marty Stuart Arlene single cover
6. Tempted
The title track of his 1991 album, “Tempted,” is Marty Stuart’s highest-charting solo single. Co-written with British songwriter Paul Kennerley, the song garnered admiration from Paul McCartney, who famously radioed Marty from his tour bus to express his appreciation while passing through Texas. “Tempted” is a catchy and upbeat tune that showcases Marty’s knack for crafting engaging melodies and relatable lyrics about desire and temptation. Its commercial success and celebrity endorsement underscore its broad appeal and Marty Stuart’s growing mainstream recognition during this period.
Marty Stuart Arlene single cover
5. Whole Lotta Highway
The 2017 album Way Out West marked a spacey and atmospheric turn for Marty Stuart and the Fabulous Superlatives, solidifying their reputation for cool and innovative country music. “Whole Lotta Highway” is a feel-good anthem celebrating life on the road, perfectly suited for long drives under open skies. This singalong track embodies the freedom and adventure of touring, paying tribute to Marty’s self-proclaimed identity as a “roads scholar.” Its cosmic country vibe and infectious rhythm make it a quintessential Marty Stuart road song.
Marty Stuart Arlene single cover
4. Western Girls
“Western Girls” encapsulates all the classic elements of a perfect country song: George Strait references, pickup trucks, jukeboxes, line dancing, and of course, Western girls. This track is a quintessential celebration of country lifestyle and romance. Complete with an infectious call-and-response chorus, “Western Girls” is designed for singalongs and guaranteed to stay in your head long after listening. It’s a fun, upbeat track that highlights Marty Stuart’s ability to capture the heart and soul of traditional country themes.
Marty Stuart Arlene single cover
3. The Whiskey Ain’t Workin’
“The Whiskey Ain’t Workin’,” another successful collaboration with Travis Tritt, earned both artists a Grammy Award. This song explores the age-old country theme of seeking solace in alcohol for heartbreak, only to find it insufficient. The lyrics suggest that while whiskey can numb the pain, only genuine affection, symbolized by a “warm and willing” honky-tonk angel, can truly heal a broken heart. Reaching number two on the charts, this duet is one of Marty Stuart and Travis Tritt’s most popular and critically acclaimed collaborations, highlighting their vocal harmonies and shared musical sensibilities.
Marty Stuart Arlene single cover
2. Time Don’t Wait
“Time Don’t Wait” blends traditional and modern sounds in a psychedelic country track that serves as both a cautionary tale and a life lesson. Marty Stuart masterfully combines classic country instrumentation with a contemporary, almost trippy vibe. The lyrics deliver a powerful message about the relentless passage of time and the importance of living in the present. The imagery of burying one’s head in the desert sands underscores the futility of ignoring the inevitable truth: “time don’t wait on nobody.” This song exemplifies Marty Stuart’s ability to innovate while staying true to his country roots.
Marty Stuart Arlene single cover
1. Hillbilly Rock
“Hillbilly Rock” is not only the title track of the album that marked Marty Stuart’s mainstream breakthrough with MCA Records but also an anthem that encapsulates his deep respect for country music history. This song serves as a musical biography of hillbilly music itself, celebrating its origins and evolution. Despite its commercially successful sound, “Hillbilly Rock” underscores Marty Stuart’s unwavering commitment to preserving and honoring the roots of country music. It stands as his signature song, embodying his energetic performances and his dedication to the genre’s heritage.
