El Paso City - Marty Robbins
"El Paso City" is a classic country ballad by American singer-songwriter Marty Robbins. The song was released in 1976 as part of his album "El Paso City". The track tells the story of a cowboy who falls in love with a Mexican girl named Felina in the town of El Paso. However, their love is short-lived as he is forced to flee after killing a man in a jealous rage. The cowboy spends years wandering in regret, eventually returning to El Paso only to be shot and killed by the same man's brother. The lyrics are deeply emotional and capture the cowboy's longing for the town and his lost love. Musically, "El Paso City" features Robbins' smooth vocals accompanied by gentle acoustic guitar and a haunting melody. The song has a traditional country sound with a touch of Tex-Mex influence, reflecting the story's setting in the border town of El Paso. Notable facts about "El Paso City" include its success on the country music charts, where it reached the top ten. The song has also been praised for its storytelling and Robbins' powerful vocal delivery, making it a standout track in his extensive discography. Overall, "El Paso City" remains a beloved classic in the country music genre, showcasing Robbins' talent as a musician and storyteller.
Marty Robbins
Marty Robbins, born Martin David Robinson on September 26, 1925, in Glendale, Arizona, was an American singer, songwriter, actor, and multi-instrumentalist. He is best known for his contributions to country music, but his versatile style also encompassed elements of rockabilly, pop, and even Hawaiian music. Robbins grew up in a musical family and learned to play the guitar at a young age. He began performing in local clubs and on radio stations in his teens, eventually landing a recording contract with Columbia Records in the early 1950s. His breakout hit came in 1956 with "Singing the Blues," which topped the charts and established him as a rising star in the country music scene. Throughout his career, Robbins continued to release hit songs, including "El Paso," a narrative ballad that won him a Grammy Award in 1961. He also found success in the pop charts with songs like "A White Sport Coat and a Pink Carnation" and "Don't Worry." In addition to his music career, Robbins also pursued acting, appearing in several Western films and television shows. Robbins' impact on music extended beyond his chart-topping hits. He was renowned for his distinctive voice, which combined a smooth, crooning style with a touch of country twang. His storytelling abilities were also highly praised, as he often wrote songs that told compelling narratives or captured complex emotions. In addition to his musical talents, Robbins was a skilled songwriter and musician, proficient on guitar, piano, and the Hawaiian steel guitar. He was also known for his philanthropy, supporting various charitable causes throughout his life. Marty Robbins' influence on country music continues to be felt today, with many artists citing him as a major inspiration. He was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1982, cementing his legacy as one of the genre's most iconic figures. Despite his passing in 1982, his music lives on as a timeless testament to his talent and artistry.