Marty Stuart, an artist dedicated to preserving old country music, shares stories about touring with Johnny Cash, studio sessions with Roy Orbison, and his journey to pursue a solo career. They also discuss the Beatles' influence, playing with Jerry Lee Lewis, and the vibrant creative scene in Nashville in the 1970s.
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Quick takeaways
Johnny Cash's masterful performances and storytelling left a lasting impact on Marty Stuart and inspired his own solo career.
Marty Stuart emphasizes the importance of staying true to traditional qualities in country music amidst industry changes.
Stewart highlights the significance of finding one's sonic identity and the influence of personal experiences in creating meaningful music.
Deep dives
The Influence of Johnny Cash and Sam Phillips
Marty Stewart reflects on his time playing and touring with Johnny Cash. He describes Cash as a master performer, showman, and storyteller. Despite the changing music industry, Cash's integrity and dedication to his craft never wavered. Stewart highlights the impact Cash had on him and the support he received from Cash when pursuing his own solo career.
The Journey to Solo Artistry
Stewart discusses his decision to pursue a solo career and the encouragement he received from those around him, including Fluke Holland and Kenny Vaughn. He recalls the challenge of finding his own sound and how it evolved over time. Stewart reflects on the importance of storytelling in his music and the influence of artists like Buddy Holly and Roy Orbison.
Working with MCA Records and Finding his Sonic Identity
Stewart shares his experience working with MCA Records in the early 90s and the support he received from Bruce Hinton and Tony Brown. He discusses the challenges of navigating the record industry and the pressure to create hits. Stewart highlights the importance of finding his sonic identity and shares how a pivotal radio experience led him to fight for his song 'Tempted'.
The Cool Factor at MCA Records
Stewart reflects on the unique atmosphere at MCA Records in Nashville during his time there. He describes it as a cool and creative environment where doors were open and creativity was flowing. Stewart mentions the notable talent signed to the label, including George Strait, Reba McEntire, Lyle Lovett, Vince Gill, and Patty Loveless.
Reviving Traditional Country Music
Marty Stewart discusses the ebb and flow of country music, highlighting the importance of bringing back traditional qualities. He reflects on his own journey in the industry, starting as a rocker and then shifting to a more traditional sound. Stewart praises contemporary country artists who are filling stadiums, recognizing the success and growth of the genre. However, he emphasizes the significance of the heart and soul factor in country music, which led him to make a personal and artistic transformation.
Music, Instruments, and Inspiration
Stewart shares insights into his musical influences and creations. He talks about his acquisition and use of Clarence White's guitar, which has a unique mechanism that allows for bending the B string. Stewart discusses the impact of instrumentals in his records, highlighting their role in pacing and enhancing the listening experience. He also explores the inspiration behind specific songs, such as "The Hangman" co-written with Johnny Cash and "The Angels Came Home," which holds autobiographical elements tied to personal growth and overcoming past struggles.
Marty Stuart has dedicated his life to playing and preserving old country music. During his 40-plus years as a solo artist, Marty has released more than 20 albums and racked up numerous honors, including five Grammys, and an induction into the Country Music Hall Of Fame.
Marty started his career at the age of 12 playing mandolin in a gospel band. By 21, he’d joined Johnny Cash’s touring band, and eventually became a solo artist who combined classic rockabilly sounds with bluegrass and cosmic country. His latest album has a sweeping, spacious feel that's meant to conjure up visions of desert horizons and endless stretches of two-lane highways.
For today’s episode, Bruce Headlam met up with Marty Stuart at Bridge Studios in Brooklyn. Marty shared stories about first going on the road with the Sullivan Family Gospel Singers, and the very first show he ever played backing Johnny Cash where Marty pretended to know how to play the fiddle. Marty also talks about how a star-studded studio session with Roy Orbison, Carl Perkins and Jerry Lee Lewis gave him the confidence to pursue a solo career in country music.
You can hear a playlist of some of our favorite Marty Stuart songs HERE.