Introduction:
“Honky Tonkin’s What I Do Best” is a vibrant and energetic collaboration between two prominent figures in country music: 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 lively and traditional honky-tonk sound. The track is characterized by its driving beat, prominent guitar work, and a classic country instrumentation that evokes the atmosphere of a lively honky-tonk bar. Both Stuart and Tritt’s vocal deliveries are steeped in traditional country twang, further solidifying its genre.
While not a chart-topping smash, “Honky Tonkin’s What I Do Best” achieved notable success 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. Beyond its chart performance, the song garnered recognition within the industry, earning a nomination for CMA Vocal Event of the Year in 1996.
The collaboration between Marty Stuart and Travis Tritt, who were touring together at the time on the “Double Trouble” tour, brought together two distinct yet complementary forces in contemporary country. The song became a popular concert staple for both artists and is celebrated for its upbeat energy and authentic country spirit. Its inclusion as the title track of Stuart’s album further underscores its significance within his body of work, representing his deep-rooted appreciation for the honky-tonk tradition. “Honky Tonkin’s What I Do Best” remains a beloved track for fans of classic-leaning country music, showcasing the dynamic interplay between two of the genre’s respected artists.