About the song
“Stand by Your Man,” a cornerstone of American country music, is a poignant anthem of devotion and loyalty, immortalized by the incomparable Tammy Wynette. Released on September 20, 1968, as both the lead single and title track of her album, the song not only skyrocketed Wynette to stardom but also became a cultural touchstone that resonates to this day.
Written by Tammy Wynette and Billy Sherrill, “Stand by Your Man” was an instant sensation. It quickly ascended to the top of the U.S. country charts, where it held the number one position for three weeks. Its crossover appeal was equally impressive, peaking at number 19 on the Billboard Hot 100 and garnering widespread acclaim across radio stations in both the country and R&B genres.
The song’s enduring popularity transcended borders, reaching number one on the UK Singles Chart in 1975 and topping charts in the Netherlands as well. Its success wasn’t just commercial; it earned Wynette the Grammy Award for Best Country Vocal Performance, Female in 1970, solidifying its place in music history. In 1999, it was rightfully inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame.
“Stand by Your Man” struck a chord with audiences for its heartfelt lyrics and Wynette’s emotive delivery, underscored by the harmonies of the Jordanaires. Despite its initial success, the song also faced criticism during the feminist movements of the late 1960s and early 1970s for its perceived conservative message. Nevertheless, Wynette herself maintained that the song was not intended as a political statement but rather as a reflection of personal commitment and steadfastness in marriage.
Beyond its musical accolades, “Stand by Your Man” has left an indelible mark on popular culture. It was featured prominently in Jack Nicholson’s iconic film “Five Easy Pieces” and has been covered and referenced in various media over the decades. The Library of Congress recognized its cultural significance by adding it to the National Recording Registry in 2010, citing its profound impact on American music and society.
From its humble beginnings as a single to its enduring legacy as a timeless classic, “Stand by Your Man” continues to evoke emotions and provoke discussions about love, loyalty, and the enduring power of music to resonate across generations. Tammy Wynette’s heartfelt plea to stand by your loved ones remains as poignant today as it was over five decades ago, securing its place among the greatest songs in country music history.
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Lyrics
Sometimes it’s hard to be a woman
Giving all your love to just one man
You’ll have bad times
And he’ll have good times
Doin’ things that you don’t understand
But if you love him you’ll forgive him
Even though he’s hard to understand
And if you love him, oh be proud of him
‘Cause after all he’s just a man
Stand by your man
Give him two arms to cling to
And something warm to come to
When nights are cold and lonely
Stand by your man
And show the world you love him
Keep giving all the love you can
Stand by your man
Stand by your man
And show the world you love him
Keep giving all the love you can
Stand by your man