“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
Marty Robbins, an iconic figure in the world of country and western music, is celebrated for his storytelling prowess and emotive vocal delivery. Born in Glendale, Arizona, in 1925, Robbins grew up surrounded by the rich musical traditions of the American West. His natural affinity for storytelling found a perfect outlet in the songs he sang and wrote, often drawing from the rugged landscapes and historical tales of the West. One of his most celebrated works is “The Master’s Call,” which showcases Robbins’s ability to weave compelling narratives with his music.
“The Master’s Call” is a track from Robbins’s acclaimed album “Gunfighter Ballads and Trail Songs,” which solidified his reputation as a master of the gunfighter ballad genre. This album, released in 1959, is a cornerstone of Robbins’s career, exemplifying his skill in blending traditional western themes with a modern musical sensibility.
About The Composition
- Title: The Master’s Call
- Composer: Marty Robbins
- Premiere Date: 1959
- Album/Opus/Collection: Gunfighter Ballads and Trail Songs
- Genre: Country, Western
Background
“Gunfighter Ballads and Trail Songs” was released at a time when the American public was captivated by tales of the Old West. The album features a collection of songs that tell vivid stories about cowboys, outlaws, and frontier life, showcasing Robbins’s deep understanding of western folklore and history. The album was both a commercial and critical success, earning a Grammy Award and eventually being certified Platinum. It remains one of Robbins’s most enduring works, celebrated for its authenticity and rich storytelling.
Musical Style
The musical style of “The Master’s Call” and the entire album is characterized by a blend of traditional country instrumentation and western stylings. Robbins’s smooth, resonant voice is complemented by the acoustic guitar, fiddle, and occasional orchestral arrangements, which contribute to the dramatic and vivid imagery of the songs. The melodies are often simple yet haunting, designed to enhance the narrative quality of the lyrics.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrical themes of “The Master’s Call” revolve around redemption and divine intervention. The song tells the story of a young man’s reckless life being turned around by a spiritual encounter, a common motif in western storytelling that Robbins handles with depth and sincerity. The lyrics are rich in imagery and emotion, drawing listeners into the protagonist’s journey and ultimate salvation.
Performance History
“Gunfighter Ballads and Trail Songs” has been performed by Marty Robbins in numerous venues, including television appearances and live concerts, where his storytelling was brought to life. Robbins’s performances were noted for their emotional intensity and authenticity, often leaving a lasting impression on audiences. The album’s success also led to its frequent airplay on radio stations across the country, cementing its place in American music history.
Cultural Impact
The album and its songs have deeply influenced the country and western genre, inspiring countless artists and musicians. “Gunfighter Ballads and Trail Songs” brought a renewed interest in western-themed music and storytelling, influencing both the music industry and popular culture. The songs from the album have appeared in various media, including films and television shows, further embedding them into the cultural fabric.
Legacy
Today, “Gunfighter Ballads and Trail Songs” is considered a classic, and Marty Robbins’s contributions to music are widely recognized. The album’s enduring popularity is a testament to Robbins’s skill as a songwriter and performer, and it continues to inspire new generations of musicians and listeners. Its influence can be seen in the continued fascination with western themes in music and film.
Conclusion
Marty Robbins’s “The Master’s Call” and the album it belongs to are testaments to the power of storytelling in music. Robbins’s ability to transport listeners to another time and place with his songs is unparalleled. For those interested in exploring the rich legacy of western music, “Gunfighter Ballads and Trail Songs” is an essential listen, offering a glimpse into the heart and soul of American folklore.
Video
Lyrics
When I was but a young man, I was wild and full of fire
A youth within my teens, but full of challenge and desire
I ran away from home and left my mother and my dad
I know it grieved them so to think their only boy was bad
I fell in with an outlaw band, their names were known quite well
How many times we robbed and plundered, I could never tell
This kind of sinful living leads only to a fall
I learned that much and more the night I heard my Master call
One night we rustled cattle, a thousand head or so
And started them out on the trail that leads to Mexico
But a norther started blowing and lightning flashed about
I thought someone was calling me, I thought I heard a shout
Then at that moment, lightning struck not 20 yards from me
And left there was a giant cross where once there was a tree
And this time I knew I heard a voice, a voice so sweet and strange
A voice that came from everywhere, a voice that called my name
So frightened I was thinking of sinful deeds I’d done
I failed to see the thousand head of cattle start to run
The cattle they stampeded, were running all around
My pony ran but stumbled, and it threw me to the ground
I felt the end was near, that death would be the price
When a mighty bolt of lightning showed the face of Jesus Christ
And I cried “Oh Lord forgive me, don’t let it happen now
I want to live for you alone, oh God, these words I vow”
My wicked past unfolded, I thought of wasted years
When another bolt of lightning killed a hundred head of steers
And the others rushed on by me, and I was left to live
The Master had a reason, life is his to take or give
A miracle performed that night, I wasn’t meant to die
The dead ones formed a barricade, ‘least six or seven high
And right behind it there was I, afraid but safe and sound
I cried and begged for mercy kneeling there upon the ground
A pardon I was granted, my sinful soul set free
No more to fear the angry waves upon life’s stormy sea
Forgiven by the love of God, a love that will remain
I gave my life and soul the night the Saviour called my name