Tammy Wynette, born Virginia Wynette Pugh (May 5, 1942 – April 6, 1998), was an American country music singer-songwriter who rose to fame in the late 1960s and became one of the genre’s most iconic figures. Born in Itawamba County, Mississippi, Wynette’s childhood was marked by poverty and hardship. Despite this, she developed a love for music at a young age.
Wynette’s big break came when she signed with Epic Records in the mid-1960s. Her career took off in 1967 with the release of her debut single, “Apartment #9,” which became a Top 10 hit on the country charts. Throughout the late 1960s and 1970s, Wynette achieved numerous hits, many of which have become classics of the genre.
Perhaps her most famous song is “Stand by Your Man,” released in 1968, which topped the country charts and crossed over to the pop charts as well. The song became an anthem for loyalty and devotion in relationships and remains one of the most recognizable country songs of all time.
Wynette’s other notable hits include “D-I-V-O-R-C-E,” “Your Good Girl’s Gonna Go Bad,” “I Don’t Wanna Play House,” and “Golden Ring” (a duet with George Jones).
Throughout her career, Wynette’s personal life often made headlines, particularly her tumultuous marriages and health issues. Despite these challenges, she continued to record and perform, earning numerous awards and accolades, including several Grammy Awards and induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame.
Tammy Wynette’s influence on country music is profound, and her distinctive voice and emotive storytelling have left an indelible mark on the genre. She remains one of the most beloved and respected figures in country music history.
1. Stand by Your Man
“Stand by Your Man” is one of Tammy Wynette’s most iconic and enduring songs. Released in 1968, the song became a massive hit and remains one of the most recognizable country songs of all time. Written by Wynette and Billy Sherrill, “Stand by Your Man” topped the country charts in the United States and reached the top of the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart.
The song’s lyrics advise women to stand by their partners through good times and bad, even if they may not always be perfect. Despite its controversial lyrics, which some viewed as promoting subservience, “Stand by Your Man” struck a chord with audiences and became an anthem for loyalty and devotion in relationships.
Tammy Wynette’s powerful and emotive delivery of the song, along with its memorable melody, contributed to its enduring popularity. “Stand by Your Man” has been covered by numerous artists and has been featured in various films, TV shows, and commercials. It remains a classic in the country music genre and a defining song in Wynette’s illustrious career.
2. D-I-V-O-R-C-E
“D-I-V-O-R-C-E” is another iconic song by Tammy Wynette, released in 1968. It was written by Bobby Braddock and Curly Putman. The song uses the spelling of “divorce” as a way to shield a couple’s child from understanding the conversation about the end of their parents’ marriage, illustrating the emotional toll of divorce on a family.
Wynette’s emotive delivery and the relatable theme struck a chord with audiences, making it one of her most successful songs. “D-I-V-O-R-C-E” reached the top of the country charts, becoming Wynette’s fifth number-one single on the Billboard Country Chart.
The song’s poignant lyrics and Wynette’s powerful vocals have cemented its place as a classic in the country music canon. It remains a timeless representation of the challenges faced by families experiencing marital difficulties and the impact on children caught in the middle.
3. ‘Til I Can Make It on My Own
“‘Til I Can Make It on My Own” is a country song written by Billy Sherrill, Tammy Wynette, and George Richey. It was recorded by Tammy Wynette and released as a single in 1976. The song was also included on her album of the same name.
The lyrics of “‘Til I Can Make It on My Own” speak of resilience and determination in the face of heartbreak and loss. The narrator acknowledges the pain of separation but vows to move forward and find strength within herself to overcome the challenges ahead. The song conveys a message of self-reliance and empowerment.
Tammy Wynette’s emotive vocals and the song’s heartfelt lyrics resonated with audiences, making it one of her signature songs. “‘Til I Can Make It on My Own” became a chart-topping hit on the country music charts and remains a beloved classic in the genre.
The song’s enduring popularity has led to numerous covers by other artists over the years. Its universal themes of perseverance and independence continue to resonate with listeners, cementing its status as a timeless country music standard.
4. Golden Ring
“Golden Ring” is a country duet written by Bobby Braddock and Rafe VanHoy. It was recorded by country music artists George Jones and Tammy Wynette, released as a single in 1976. The song was also included on their collaborative album of the same name.
The lyrics of “Golden Ring” tell the story of a couple’s failing marriage through the symbolism of a golden wedding ring. As the song progresses, the ring becomes a metaphor for the love that once bound the couple together but is now tarnished by jealousy and suspicion. Despite their struggles, the couple decides to hold onto the ring as a reminder of their vows and the hope of reconciliation.
George Jones and Tammy Wynette’s powerful vocal performances and their real-life tumultuous relationship added depth and authenticity to the song, resonating with audiences. “Golden Ring” became one of their most successful duets, reaching the top of the country music charts and earning critical acclaim.
The song’s poignant lyrics and emotional delivery have made it a classic in the country music genre. It continues to be cherished by fans of traditional country music and has been covered by various artists over the years. “Golden Ring” remains a testament to the enduring power of love and the complexities of marriage.
5. I Don’t Wanna Play House
“I Don’t Wanna Play House” is a classic song by Tammy Wynette, released in 1967. It was written by Billy Sherrill and Glenn Sutton. The song tells the story of a young girl who witnesses her parents’ troubled marriage and expresses her desire to escape the emotional turmoil by refusing to “play house” with her dolls.
Wynette’s emotive delivery and the relatable theme resonated with audiences, making it one of her early hits. “I Don’t Wanna Play House” reached the top of the country charts, becoming Wynette’s first number-one single on the Billboard Country Chart.
The song’s poignant lyrics and Wynette’s heartfelt vocals have made it a standout in her repertoire and a classic in the country music genre. It remains a powerful portrayal of the impact of marital discord on children and the desire for stability and happiness in family life.
6. Your Good Girl’s Gonna Go Bad
“Your Good Girl’s Gonna Go Bad” is a notable song by Tammy Wynette, released in 1967. It was written by Billy Sherrill and Glenn Sutton. The song marks a significant moment in Wynette’s career as it established her as a solo artist, separate from her previous work as a background vocalist.
In “Your Good Girl’s Gonna Go Bad,” Wynette sings about a woman who is tired of being good and obedient, and decides to break free from societal expectations to pursue her own desires and independence. The song’s lyrics depict a transformation from a traditional “good girl” to a more assertive and liberated individual.
Wynette’s powerful vocals and the song’s catchy melody helped propel it to success on the country music charts. It became one of Wynette’s early hits and helped solidify her reputation as one of the leading voices in country music.
“Your Good Girl’s Gonna Go Bad” remains a classic in Wynette’s discography and is celebrated for its empowering message and Wynette’s distinctive vocal delivery.
7. Singing My Song
“Singing My Song” is a country song written by Billy Sherrill, Glenn Sutton, and Tammy Wynette. It was recorded by Tammy Wynette and released as a single in 1969. The song was also included on her album of the same name.
“Singing My Song” is a heartfelt ballad in which the narrator expresses her gratitude for the simple joys in life, including her ability to express herself through music. The lyrics speak of finding solace and fulfillment in singing and the importance of staying true to oneself despite life’s challenges.
Tammy Wynette’s emotive vocals and the song’s poignant lyrics resonated with audiences, making it a hit on the country music charts. “Singing My Song” became one of Wynette’s signature songs and remains a beloved classic in the genre.
The song’s message of self-expression and resilience has continued to resonate with listeners over the years. “Singing My Song” remains a staple of country music playlists and is recognized as one of Tammy Wynette’s greatest achievements as an artist.
8. My Man (Understands)
“My Man (Understands)” is a song by Tammy Wynette, released in 1972. It was written by Betty Sue Perry and Mary Reeves Davis. The song was included on Wynette’s album “My Man” and also released as a single.
In “My Man (Understands),” Wynette sings about the unconditional love and support she receives from her partner, emphasizing the deep emotional connection they share. The lyrics express gratitude for having a partner who truly understands her and stands by her side through thick and thin.
The song’s sentiment of mutual understanding and unwavering commitment resonated with audiences, and it became a modest hit on the country music charts. Wynette’s heartfelt delivery and the song’s emotive melody contributed to its appeal.
While “My Man (Understands)” may not be as well-known as some of Wynette’s other hits, it remains a poignant representation of enduring love and companionship in her repertoire.
9. You and Me
“You and Me” is a song by Tammy Wynette, released in 1976. It was written by Norris Wilson and George Richey. The song was included on Wynette’s album “You and Me” and also released as a single.
In “You and Me,” Wynette sings about the enduring bond and love she shares with her partner. The lyrics express devotion and commitment, highlighting the importance of standing by each other through life’s ups and downs.
The song’s message of love and unity resonated with audiences, and it became a successful single on the country music charts. Wynette’s emotive delivery and the song’s heartfelt melody contributed to its popularity.
While “You and Me” may not be as well-known as some of Wynette’s other hits, it remains a poignant representation of enduring love and partnership in her repertoire.
10. Kids Say the Darndest Things
“Kids Say the Darndest Things” is a song performed by Tammy Wynette, released in 1973. It was written by Buddy Mize and Audie Murphy. The song was included on Wynette’s album “Let’s Get Together” and also released as a single.
In “Kids Say the Darndest Things,” Wynette sings about the humorous and often surprising things that children say. The lyrics depict various scenarios where children’s innocence and honesty lead to amusing and sometimes embarrassing situations for the adults around them.
The song’s lighthearted and playful tone, combined with Wynette’s warm vocals, made it a favorite among fans. While “Kids Say the Darndest Things” may not be as well-known as some of Wynette’s other hits, it remains a charming and nostalgic representation of childhood innocence in her repertoire.