OldiesButGoodies

Country

Marty Stuart feat. Travis Tritt – Honky Tonkin’s What I Do Best

Every #1 Country Single of the Nineties: Travis Tritt and Marty Stuart, “The Whiskey Ain't Workin'” – Country Universe

Introduction:

“Honky Tonkin’s What I Do Best” is a spirited collaboration between country music stalwarts Marty Stuart and Travis Tritt. The song was released in April 1996 as the lead single and title track from Marty Stuart’s ninth studio album, also titled “Honky Tonkin’s What I Do Best”, which was released in June of the same year.

The musical genre of “Honky Tonkin’s What I Do Best” firmly resides within country music, specifically embracing the neotraditional country sound that both Stuart and Tritt championed during the 1990s. The track is an upbeat, honky-tonk anthem, celebrating the joys of live music, dancing, and the classic country bar scene. With its prominent fiddle, twangy guitars, and a driving rhythm, the song evokes a sense of traditional country energy infused with a contemporary edge, characteristic of the “new country” movement of the era.

While not a chart-topping smash, “Honky Tonkin’s What I Do Best” achieved notable recognition within the country music landscape. It peaked at number 23 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart and reached number 8 on the Canadian RPM Country Tracks chart. More significantly, the song garnered critical acclaim and industry attention, earning a nomination for the 1997 Grammy Award for Best Country Collaboration with Vocals. Although it didn’t win, the nomination highlighted the dynamic chemistry between Stuart and Tritt and the song’s infectious energy. Furthermore, it was nominated for a CMA Vocal Event of the Year award in 1996, further solidifying its impact within the country music community. “Honky Tonkin’s What I Do Best” remains a beloved track for fans of both artists and a testament to their shared appreciation for traditional honky-tonk sounds with a modern flair.

Video:

https://youtu.be/ola_cIHXdR0?si=Hteb1qRG1sNfrWxR

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