Hey there! Tammy Wynette was a country music icon, a hitmaker who left an indelible mark on the music world with her powerful vocals, emotional delivery, and timeless classics. Born in Mississippi in 1942, Tammy’s journey to stardom was anything but easy. She faced early challenges in life and struggled to make ends meet as a single mother before finally getting her big break in the music industry.
As the “First Lady of Country Music,” Tammy Wynette broke down barriers and paved the way for other female performers in the country music industry. Wynette’s most beloved songs include iconic solo tunes and classic duets with longtime musical partner George Jones (also her husband for a few years).
In this list, we’ve put together 10 Tammy Wynette songs that will touch your heart so, sit back, relax, and enjoy the best of Tammy Wynette’s incredible catalog of songs.
1. “Stand by Your Man”
“Stand by Your Man” is perhaps Tammy Wynette’s most well-known song, and it’s easy to see why. Released in 1968, the song became an instant classic, with its message of loyalty and devotion striking a chord with audiences. Tammy’s passionate vocals and the song’s upbeat tempo make it a favorite at weddings and other romantic occasions. It is catchy melody and simple lyrics have made it a timeless classic, still played on radio stations and at events today.
The song’s message is clear: no matter what happens, you should stand by your man through thick and thin. Tammy’s powerful vocals and emotional delivery make this song a classic that continues to resonate with listeners today.
“Stand by Your Man” was a worldwide success in the Netherlands and the UK. It was included in the National Recording Registry by the Library of Congress in 2010, and it also ranks first on CMT’s list of the top 100 country songs.
2. “D-I-V-O-R-C-E”
“D-I-V-O-R-C-E” is another hit song from Tammy Wynette, released in 1968. The song tells the story of a young couple’s divorce, from the perspective of their young son. Tammy’s emotive vocals bring to life the sadness and pain of the situation, making it a powerful and emotional ballad.
However, the song’s clever spelling of the word “divorce” adds a playful touch and makes it easy to sing along to. The song’s gentle melody and poignant lyrics make it a tear-jerker that has become a favorite of Tammy’s fans over the years.
3. “Til I Can Make It on My Own”
‘Til I Can Make It on My Own” is a heartfelt ballad that showcases Tammy’s incredible vocal range. Released in 1976, the song tells the story of a woman determined to make it on her own after a breakup. Its lyrics are empowering and inspirational, making it a favorite of women around the world. The song’s gentle melody and Tammy’s emotional delivery make it a classic that still resonates with listeners today.
This piece was reportedly Wynette’s favorite song she ever recorded. With her song about attempting to gradually move past a failed relationship spending 11 weeks at the top of the charts and receiving a CMA Song of the Year nomination, she undoubtedly has company in that regard.
4. “Golden Ring”
“Golden Ring” is a duet that Tammy recorded with her then-husband George Jones in 1976. It is one of Wynette and Jones’ best-loved songs. The song tells the story of a couple whose marriage is falling apart, and the golden ring is the only thing that’s left.
The song’s melancholic melody and Tammy and George’s emotive vocals, and lyrics make it a classic country song that continues to tug at listeners’ heartstrings and still resonates with audiences today.
5. “I Don’t Wanna Play House”
“I Don’t Wanna Play House” is a poignant ballad released in 1967. The song tells the story of a young girl who is forced to grow up too fast after her parent’s divorce. The song’s emotional lyrics and Tammy’s powerful vocals make it a heart-wrenching song that continues to be a favorite of country music fans and a testament to Tammy’s incredible talent.
6. “Your Good Girl’s Gonna Go Bad”
“Your Good Girl’s Gonna Go Bad” was Tammy Wynette’s first number-one hit, released in 1967. The song tells the story of a good girl who decides to break the rules and let loose. The song’s catchy melody and Tammy’s sassy vocals make it a fun and empowering song that’s perfect for anyone who needs a little push to let their hair down.
7. “Apartment No. 9”
“Apartment #9” is a classic Tammy Wynette song released in 1966. The fact that “Apartment No. 9” was Wynette’s debut single makes it significant even though it may not be the most popular Wynette song on this list (it peaked at No. 44 on the Billboard Country chart).
The song tells the story of a woman who is living in a run-down apartment and dreaming of something better. The song’s melancholic melody and Tammy’s emotive vocals make it a timeless song that continues to resonate with listeners today.
8. “Til I Get It Right”
“Til I Get It Right” is a beautiful ballad released in 1972 that showcases Tammy’s incredible vocal range. The song tells the story of a woman determined to keep trying until she achieves her dreams. Its empowering lyrics and uplifting melody make it a favorite of fans around the world, while Tammy’s emotive vocals add a touch of passion and determination.
9. “The Ways to Love a Man”
“The Ways to Love a Man” is a classic country song that Tammy released in 1970. The song offers advice on how to love a man, from taking care of him to being his best friend. Tammy’s warm vocals and the song’s catchy melody make it a timeless classic that’s still loved by fans today.
10. “Crying in the Rain”
“Crying in the Rain” is a hauntingly beautiful ballad that Tammy released in 1981. The song tells the story of a woman who is crying in the rain over a lost love. Tammy’s emotional vocals and the song’s evocative melody make it a powerful song that will bring tears to your eyes.
So there you have it, folks – some of the greatest hits from the Queen of Country Music herself, Tammy Wynette. From heart-wrenching ballads to uplifting anthems, Tammy’s music continues to inspire and move fans around the world, cementing her legacy as one of the greatest musicians of all time.