Faleena (from El Paso) - Marty Robbins
"Faleena (from El Paso)" is a classic country ballad by Marty Robbins, released in 1977. The song tells the story of a cowboy who falls in love with a beautiful Mexican girl named Faleena, who hails from El Paso. The cowboy is captivated by Faleena's beauty and charm, but their love is doomed from the start due to their cultural differences and the cowboy's wandering ways. The composition of the song features Robbins' signature smooth vocals accompanied by a haunting melody that perfectly captures the bittersweet theme of forbidden love. The music is beautifully arranged with lush strings and gentle guitar picking, creating a dreamy and nostalgic atmosphere. One notable fact about "Faleena (from El Paso)" is that it is actually a continuation of Robbins' earlier hit song "El Paso" from 1959. In "El Paso," the cowboy falls in love with a girl named Feleena and ends up killing a man in a jealous rage, forcing him to flee El Paso. "Faleena (from El Paso)" picks up where the first song left off, exploring the aftermath of the cowboy's actions and his enduring love for Feleena/Faleena. Overall, "Faleena (from El Paso)" is a poignant and evocative song that showcases Marty Robbins' storytelling prowess and musical talent. It remains a fan favorite and a timeless classic in the country music genre.
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.