Why Marty Robbins Wrote “My Woman, My Woman, My Wife” After a Near-Fatal Heart Attack Will Touch Your Soul

Introduction

Introduction to “My Woman, My Woman, My Wife (Live)” by Marty Robbins

Released in 1970, “My Woman, My Woman, My Wife” is one of Marty Robbins’ most emotionally resonant songs, paying tribute to the quiet strength and sacrifices of a devoted wife. Written by Robbins himself, the song quickly became a major hit, topping the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and earning Robbins a Grammy Award for Best Country Song in 1971. Its poignant lyrics and heartfelt delivery reflected Robbins’ deep appreciation for love, loyalty, and the often-unspoken endurance of women in relationships.

The live version of “My Woman, My Woman, My Wife” brings an added layer of intimacy and authenticity. Marty’s emotive vocals, combined with the simplicity of the arrangement, allow the audience to feel the personal nature of the song. In concert settings, Robbins was known for his charismatic stage presence and emotional connection with the crowd—qualities that are especially evident in this performance. The live rendition captures the vulnerability in his voice as he delivers each line with sincerity, highlighting the song’s deep emotional core.

This song stands apart in Robbins’ wide-ranging catalog, which spanned country, western, pop, and even rockabilly. While he was known for story-driven hits like “El Paso” and “Big Iron,” this ballad showcased his sensitivity and ability to connect with universal themes of love and gratitude.

More than five decades after its release, “My Woman, My Woman, My Wife” remains a timeless ode to love and commitment. Whether heard in its original studio version or in a powerful live performance, the song continues to resonate with audiences for its honest depiction of devotion, aging, and the quiet heroism of a loving partner.

Video

Lyrics

Hands that are strong but wrinkled
Doing work that never gets done
Hair, that’s lost some of the beauty
By too many hours in the sun
Eyes, that show some disappointment
And there’s been quite a lot in her life
She’s the foundation I lean on
My woman, my woman, my wife
Everyday has been uphill
Oh, we climb but we can’t reach the top
I’m weak and I’m easily discouraged
She just smiles when I want to stop
Lips, that are weary but tender
With love, that strengthens my life
A saint, in a dress made of gingham
My woman, my woman, my wife
Two little babies were born in the spring
But died when the winter was new
I lost control of my mind and my soul
But my woman’s faith carried us through
When she reaches that river
Lord, you know what she’s worth
Give her that mansion up yonder
‘Cause she’s been through hell here on earth
Lord, give her my share of Heaven
If I’ve earned any here in this life
‘Cause God, I believe she deserves it
My woman, my woman, my wife