“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
Marty Robbins was an American singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist renowned for his contributions to the country music genre. Born on September 26, 1925, in Glendale, Arizona, Robbins rose to prominence with his unique blend of country, western, and pop music elements. One of his most celebrated works is “El Paso City,” a song that showcases his storytelling prowess and deep connection to the American Southwest. Robbins’ career spanned several decades, during which he released numerous hits that continue to resonate with audiences today.
“El Paso City” is often considered a sequel to Robbins’ earlier hit, “El Paso,” and it reflects his ability to weave narrative depth into his music. The song captures the essence of the American frontier and has secured Robbins’ legacy as a master storyteller in the country music genre.
About The Composition
- Title: Marty Robbins
- Composer: Marty Robbins
- Premiere Date: 1959
- Album/Opus/Collection: Gunfighter Ballads and Trail Songs
- Genre: Country, Western
Background
Marty Robbins was a versatile artist whose career began in the late 1940s. He signed with Columbia Records in 1951, which marked the start of a successful recording career. Over time, Robbins became known for his ability to cross musical boundaries, incorporating elements of pop and rock into his country music. His passion for the American West and cowboy culture was evident in many of his songs, particularly in his ballads that told vivid stories of romance and adventure.
Robbins’ commitment to storytelling and his distinctive voice earned him numerous accolades, including Grammy Awards and induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame. His music often featured themes of love, heartbreak, and the rugged beauty of the western landscape.
Musical Style
Marty Robbins’ musical style was characterized by his smooth, resonant voice and his ability to blend traditional country sounds with pop influences. His songs often featured intricate guitar work and lush orchestral arrangements, which complemented his vivid storytelling. Robbins had a talent for creating atmospheric pieces that transported listeners to the vast landscapes he sang about.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrical themes of Marty Robbins’ songs often revolved around love, loss, and the adventurous spirit of the American West. In “El Paso City,” Robbins continued the narrative established in “El Paso,” exploring themes of nostalgia and the passage of time. His lyrics were known for their vivid imagery and emotional depth, which resonated with listeners.
Performance History
Marty Robbins frequently performed his hits on television and in live concerts, captivating audiences with his charismatic stage presence. “El Paso” and its sequel “El Paso City” were staples in his live performances, and Robbins’ storytelling ability made these songs fan favorites. His appearances on programs like the Grand Ole Opry further cemented his status as a country music icon.
Cultural Impact
Marty Robbins’ music has had a lasting impact on the country genre, influencing countless artists with his storytelling and innovative sound. His songs have appeared in various films and television shows, showcasing their enduring appeal. Robbins’ ability to capture the spirit of the West and his contributions to the genre have made him a beloved figure in American music history.
Legacy
Today, Marty Robbins is remembered as one of country music’s greatest storytellers. His influence can be seen in the works of artists who continue to draw inspiration from his narrative style and genre-blending sound. Robbins’ music remains a testament to his talent and his enduring legacy in the world of country music.
Conclusion
Marty Robbins’ contributions to music are both significant and timeless. His ability to tell compelling stories through song has left an indelible mark on the country genre. For those unfamiliar with his work, exploring Robbins’ discography promises a journey through the rich tapestry of American music history.
Video
Lyrics
From thirty thousand feet above
The desert floor, I see it there below
A city with a legend –
The west Texas city of El Paso
Where long ago I heard a song
About a Texas cowboy and a girl
And a little place called Rosa’s
Where he used to go and watch this beauty whirl.
I don’t recall who sang the song
But I recall the story that I heard
And as I look down on the city,
I remember each and ev’ry word
The singer sang about a jealous cowboy
And the way he used a gun
To kill another cowboy
Then he had to leave El Paso on the run.
El Paso City, by the Rio Grande
The cowboy lived and rode away
But love was strong he couldn’t stay
He rode back just to die in that El Paso sand
El Paso City, by the Rio Grande
I try not to let you cross my mind
But still I find there’s just a mystery
In the song that I don’t understand.
My mind is down there somewhere
As I fly above the badlands of New Mexico
I can’t explain why I should know
The very trail he rode back to El Paso
Can it be that man can disappear
From life and live another time
And does the mystery deepen ’cause you think
That you yourself lived in that other time.
Somewhere in my deepest thoughts
Familar scenes and memories unfold
These wild and unexplained emotions
That I’ve had so long but I have never told
Like every time I fly up thru the heavens
And I see you there below
I get the feeling sometime
In another world I lived in El Paso.
El Paso City, by the Rio Grande
Could it be that I could be
The cowboy in this mystery
That died there in that desert sand so long ago
El Paso City, by the Rio Grande
A voice tells me to go and see
Another voice keeps tellin’ me
Maybe death awaits me in El Paso