About the song
“Stand by Your Man” is a timeless classic in the country music genre, performed by the legendary Tammy Wynette. Released as a single in September 1968, this song quickly became one of the defining tracks of Wynette’s career and a staple in country music history. The song was co-written by Tammy Wynette and Billy Sherrill, who was also the producer of the track. It was featured on her album of the same name, “Stand by Your Man,” which solidified her status as a leading figure in country music.
The song’s lyrics convey a powerful message about unconditional love and loyalty, encapsulating the emotional complexity of standing by one’s partner through thick and thin. Despite facing some criticism for its perceived traditional gender roles, “Stand by Your Man” resonated deeply with audiences, particularly women who found strength and solace in its message.
Upon its release, “Stand by Your Man” achieved remarkable success. It topped the Billboard Country Singles chart for three weeks and crossed over to the pop charts, reaching No. 19 on the Billboard Hot 100. This crossover appeal helped Tammy Wynette gain a broader audience beyond the traditional country music fan base. The song also earned Wynette a Grammy Award for Best Female Country Vocal Performance in 1969.
Over the years, “Stand by Your Man” has been covered by numerous artists across various genres, further cementing its legacy as one of the most iconic songs in American music history. It has been featured in films, television shows, and commercials, and continues to be celebrated as a poignant anthem of love and resilience. For many listeners, both young and old, Tammy Wynette’s heartfelt performance and the song’s enduring message remain as powerful and relevant today as they were over five decades ago.
Video
Lyrics
Sometimes it’s hard to be a woman
Givin’ all your love to just one man
You’ll have the bad times
And he’ll have the good times
Doing things that you don’t understand
But if you love him, you’ll forgive him
Even though he’s hard to understand, mm, mm
And if you love him, oh, be proud of him
‘Cause after all, he’s just a man
Stand by your man
Give him two arms to cling to
And something warm to come to
When nights are cold and lonely
Stand by your man
And show the world you love him
Keep giving all the love you can, mm, mm
Stand by your man, hmm, hmm
Stand by your man (Ooh, ooh)
And show the world you love him (Ooh, ooh)
Keep giving all the love you can
Stand by your man, mm, mm, mm