Marty Stuart Is Saying Goodbye After His Wife's Tragic Diagnosis

uh who makes you laugh the most my wife Connie all right we're diving into the touching story of country music legend Marty Stewart and his wife Connie Smith recently Connie faced a serious health scare that shook their world we'll look at how this strong couple handled the tough news plus we take a tour through their amazing careers and the deep love that has kept them together through the hardest times join us as we explore their Journey filled with love music and unwavering Faith Marty's upbringing an early musical inspiration John Marty Stewart known as Marty Stewart was born on September 30th 1958 in the small town of Philadelphia Mississippi growing up in a place rich with musical tradition it wasn't long before Marty discovered his love for music even as a child he was drawn to the sounds of country and gospel music which were a big part of life in Mississippi Marty's musical Journey began early by the time he was just 12 years old he had already mastered the guitar and mandolin these two instruments would become his signature tools throughout his career his passion for music was more than just a hobby it was a Calling Marty wasn't just playing music he was living it breathing it and dreaming about it he spent countless hours practicing and listening to records soaking up every note and lyric at the tender age of 12 Marty's Talent caught the attention of a gospel band called The Sullivans this group was well known in the local music scene and they quickly welcomed Marty into their fold this was a big deal for such a Young musician and it was clear that Marty was destined for something special being part of the Sullivans gave him the chance to play in front of audiences sharpening his skills and gaining confidence as a performer it was during his time with the Sullivans that Marty had a lifechanging encounter he met Roland white a talented mandolinist who played in the backing band of Lester flat one of the Giants of bluegrass music Roland white was impressed by Marty's skill on the mandolin and saw the potential in the Young musician he decided to give Marty a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity in 1972 Roland invited Marty to join him at a concert in Delaware where Lester flat and his band performed this was a huge moment for Marty who was only 14 years old at the time the thought of playing with such legendary musicians was both thrilling and nerve-wracking but Marty was ready to take on the challenge Marty's performance at the concert was nothing short of remarkable he played with confidence and skill that bellied his young age and he quickly won over the audience and the band Lester flat himself was so impressed that he invited Mar to become a regular member of his band this was the break that Marty had been dreaming of joining Lester Flat's band was a major turning point in Marty's life not only did it give him the chance to play with some of the best musicians in the business but it also allowed him to travel the country and perform in front of large audiences Marty was living the life of a professional musician before he was even old enough to drive during his time with Lester flat Mar learned the ins and outs of the music business he soaked up Knowledge from the seasoned musicians around him learning about everything from stage presence to songwriting this experience was like a musical apprenticeship and it laid the foundation for Marty's future career going solo he continued to tour with flat until the Elder musician retired in 1978 around this time Marty recorded an independent album titled With a Little Help from My Friends this album was a stepping stone that would lead him to work with other notable musicians like Vasser Clemens and Doc Watson in 1980 Stewart's career took a significant turn when he joined Johnny Cash's band this was a pivotal moment for Marty as it exposed him to a broader audience and allowed him to learn from one of the biggest names in country music by 1982 Marty was ready to step out on his own he released a second second album Busy B Cafe on Sugar Hill records the album was unique as it was recorded during a jam session with some of country and Bluegrass music's finest this included Johnny Cash Doc Watson and Earl Scruggs this album helped Marty gain recognition as a solo artist in 1985 Marty played on Johnny Cash's Class of 55 album during these sessions Carl Perkins gifted Marty his guitar a gesture that symbolized ized Marty's growing stature in the music world later that year Marty left Johnny Cash's band to pursue a solo career he signed a recording contract with Columbia Records and released his self-titled debut album the album featured the single Arlene which became his first entry on the billboard hot country songs charts despite the success of Arlene the other singles from the album didn't perform as well nevertheless Marty's efforts earned him a nomination for top new male vocalist at the Academy of Country Music Awards after a brief return to his roots with the Sullivans Marty headed back to Nashville and signed with MCA records in 1989 his first album with MCA Hillbilly Rock was a turning point in his career the title track written by Paul kenerly became his first top 10 country hit in 1990 the album also included a cover of Johnny Cash's cry cry cry and Marty's own Western girls Hillbilly Rock was eventually certified gold by the recording industry Association of America riaa solidifying Marty's place in the country music scene in 1991 Marty released his second MCA album tempted the album was a critical and Commercial Success with four singles charting on the hot country songs list the title track along with little things till I found you and Burn Me Down all made a significant impact with most of them reaching the top 10 during this time Marty also collaborated with Travis trit on the song The Whiskey ain't working which became one of his biggest hits reaching number two on the charts this song earned Marty his first Grammy award for best country collaboration with vocals in 1992 the success of this duet led to a joint tour with trit called the no hats tour this was a playful nod to the fact that neither artist wore a cowboy hat which was unusual for Country musicians at the time Marty's next album this one's going to hurt you came out in 1992 and featured another successful duet with trit on the title track the album Mixed Styles like Bluegrass southern rock rockabilly and blues showcasing Marty's versatility the album was well received with critic Alana Nash giving it an a rating and praising its stylistic diversity the album was certified gold in 1993 further establishing Marty's success in the country music world in 1994 Marty released love and luck an album that featured collaborations with artists like Vince Gil and Ricky Skaggs though the album didn't produce any major hits it showed Marty's dedication to his craft and his respect for the roots of country music Marty's career continued to flourish and in 1995 MCA released the Marty Party Hit pack a compilation of his biggest hits this album included popular tracks like the whiskey ain't working and featured new songs in covers of Classics like Elvis Presley's Don't Be Cruel the compilation was a success and earned Marty yet another gold certification in the late 1990s Marty's Music began to reflect a more traditional country sound he released the pilgrim in 1999 a concept album that explored themes of love and betrayal although it wasn't a commercial hit the album was praised for its ambition and artistic Vision in 2003 Marty formed a new band called The Fabulous superlatives and released the album country music on Columbia Records this album marked a return to his roots and included covers of classic country songs along with new material critics praised the album for its energy and authenticity and It produced two charting singles Marty continued to innovate and explore new musical territory launching his own record label super latone records in 2005 he used this platform to release albums that celebrated southern gospel and Roots Music further cementing his legacy as a torch Bearer for traditional country music country memorabilia Marty Stewart is not only a country music star but also a passionate collector of country music memorabilia his love for the history of country music shines through his extensive collection a collection that includes everything from classic guitars to Unique outfits worn by legendary performers Stewart's collection is so impressive that it has been featured in several major exhibits across the country this allows fans and music lovers to experience a piece of country music history up close one of the most notable exhibits featuring Stuart's collection was called Sparkle and twang Marty Stewart's American Musical Odyssey this exhibit first appeared at the Tennessee State Museum in7 and was a big hit with visitors The Collection included dazzling stage costumes personal items from famous country artists and even handwritten lyrics the success of Sparkle and twang led to the exhibit being showcased at other prestigious locations this includes the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum in Cleveland Ohio and the Arkansas State House Museum each exhibit offered a glimpse into the rich history of country music and the personal stories of the artists who shaped the genre for example fans could see the flashy outfits worn by Porter wager as well as items belonging to Johnny Cash Stuart's dedication to preserving these pieces of History shows how much he values the legacy of country music and its influence on American culture in early 2018 Stewart teamed up with the Grammy Museum to co-curate another exciting exhibit at the Woody Guthrie Center in Tulsa Oklahoma this exhibit titled Marty Stewart's Way Out West a country music Odyssey focused on the impact of the West Coast on country music it featured items from famous artists like Merl Haggard Buck Owens and Johnny Cash all of these played a significant role in the development of the Bakersfield sound this was a style of country music that originated in California what made this exhibit even more special was that many of the items on display came directly from Stewart's Personal Collection one particularly touching piece was the last portrait of Johnny Cash which Stuart had taken in Just 4 days before cash passed away this Photograph along with other memorabilia offered a heartfelt tribute to the artists who helped shape the sound of country music on the west coast but Stuart's collection doesn't just stop at costumes and photographs it also includes some incredible guitars with fascinating histories for instance Ivonne and Mavis Staples members of the legendary gospel group The Staple Singers gave Stuart one of their father pop Staples guitars after his passing mava Staples explained that her father had a special bond with Marty considering him as part of their family she praised Stuart for his ability to play guitar in a way that reminded her of her father's Unique Style she said that he's the only person she knows who can make a guitar sound like pops one of the most prized guitars in Stewart's collection is Clarence a two-tone Fender Telecaster that once belong Ong to Clarence white this guitar is not just any ordinary instrument it is the original B Bender guitar this was a groundbreaking invention designed by white and Jean Parsons in the late 1960s the B Bender allows the guitarist to raise the B string by a whole step creating a sound similar to that of a petal steel guitar a staple in country music Stuart purchased this unique guitar in 1980 from Clarence White's Widow and it has since become one of his signature instruments over the years Stuart has continued to play Clarence in concerts honoring the legacy of Clarence white and keeping his Innovative Spirit Alive the guitar with its distinctive sound and Rich history represents not only Stuart's deep connection to country music's past but also his dedication to carrying that Legacy into the future Stuart's passion for collecting and preserving country music history is more than just a hobby it's a way for him to give back to the genre that has given him so much through his collection and the exhibits that showcase it Stuart has created a bridge between the past and present allowing fans to appreciate the Artistry and craftsmanship of the musicians who paved the way in addition to his work as a musician and collector Stuart has also used his platform to educate others about the importance of preserving music history by curating EX exhibits and sharing his collection with the public he has helped to ensure that the stories and sounds of country music will continue to inspire future Generations meeting the love of his life Marty Stewart's life is filled with fascinating stories but one of the most touching is his love story with country music star Connie Smith before we dive into that let's talk about his first marriage Marty Stewart was married to Cindy cash the daughter of the legend legendary Johnny Cash from 1983 to 1988 this Union connected him to one of the most iconic families in country music but it wasn't meant to last the marriage ended but Stewart's connection to the cash family remained strong he continued to work closely with Johnny Cash throughout his career now let's move on to the love story that really captured the hearts of country music fans Marty Stewart's current wife is Connie Smith a country artist he had admired since he was a young boy their love story is one of those heartwarming tales that sounds like it was written for a country song Marty first met Connie when he was just 12 years old and she was already a well-known singer she came to his hometown of Philadelphia Mississippi to perform at a fair on the Indian Reservation where Marty grew up this was a big deal for young Marty who was a huge fan of Connie's music Marty recalled the moment with Vivid detail he said I met Connie when I was 12 years old she came to the Indian reservation in my hometown of Philadelphia Mississippi to work at aair she hasn't changed a bit she looked great then and she looks great now even at such a young age Marty was smitten he remembered telling his mother that he was going to marry Connie Smith one day it might have seemed like a childhood fantasy at the time but sometimes dreams have a funny way of coming true Marty was so determined to catch Connie's attention that he convinced his mother to buy him a yellow shirt hoping it would make him stand out after the concert Marty and his sister got their picture taken with Connie and she signed an autograph for him on the way home he told his mother again I'm going to marry her years went by and Marty Stewart grew up to become a talented musician in his own right he built a successful career in country music but the memory of that encounter with Connie Smith never left him decades later their paths crossed again this time as colleagues in the music industry by then Marty was an established artist and Connie had already made a name for herself as one of country music's greats when they met again they started talking about music and it was clear they had a special connection Connie was impressed with Marty's knowledge and passion for country music we met and started talking about music music I was really impressed with what he knew and what he talked about Connie said in an interview their shared love for music led to a professional partnership and Connie soon asked Marty if he would be interested in working with her of course Marty said yes how could he refuse after all this was the woman he had admired since childhood their collaboration turned out to be incredibly fruitful over the years they wrote around 40 to 50 songs together their musical chemistry was undeniable but there was something more between them something that went beyond music a little about Connie Connie Smith born constant June meter entered the world on August 14th 1941 in Elkart Indiana she was the daughter of Wilma and Hobart meter who originally hailed from West Virginia when Connie was just 5 months old her family moved back to their home state they later relocated to danganan Ohio where Connie spent much of her early childhood unfortunately her biological father struggled with alcoholism and was abusive to the family this made Connie's early years challenging in an interview she once mentioned there were some tough times that I went through as a young child Connie's mother eventually divorced her father and remarried Tom Clark this new marriage brought together quite a large family Tom had eight children while Wilma had five including Connie together the couple had two more children making a total of 15 kids in the household growing up in such a big family Connie was surrounded by music her stepfather played the mandolin one brother played the fiddle and another brother played the guitar on Saturday nights the family would gather to listen to The Grand Old opri on the radio this tradition likely sparked Connie's love for country music a significant moment in Connie's childhood occurred after she suffered a severe lawnmower accident that almost resulted in the loss of her leg while recovering in the hospital she was given a guitar to help pass the time it was during this period that she learned to play mastering different chords and developing her musical skills despite her love for music Connie didn't perform publicly until High School when a friend asked her to sing Connie francis's pop hit my happiness Connie excelled academically and graduated from Salem Liberty High School in 1959 as the class salutatorian After High School she worked various jobs this included as a telephone operator drugstore Clerk and grocery store employee at the age of 19 she married her first husband Jerry Smith who encouraged her to pursue her singing this encouragement LED Connie to perform more frequently this included her first professional performance at the 1962 Washington County Fair Connie briefly joined a local country music television show called Saturday night jambur but after her first performance she was let go possibly because she was pregnant at the time undeterred she auditioned for another show on WSAZ TV and landed a spot although she had these opportunities Connie still intended to remain a housewife and mother however her path took a turn in August 1963 when she entered a talent contest at the Frontier Ranch Country Music Park near Columbus Ohio she performed Jean Shepard's I thought of you and won the contest along with five silver dollars one of the judges country singer songwriter Bill Anderson was immediately impressed by her voice he said later that he initially thought she was lipsyncing to a record in January 1964 Connie crossed paths with Bill Anderson again at a concert in Canton Ohio he invited her to perform with him on Ernest tub's midnight jeree program in Nashville Tennessee when she performed in March 1964 she learned that she wouldn't be singing with Anderson as expected but with Ernest tub instead after her performance country music legend Loretta Lynn introduced herself to Connie and offered her some valuable career advice Connie returned to Nashville in May 1964 to record demos of Bill Anderson's song which he planned to pitch to other artists Anderson's manager Hubert long shared the demo with RCA Victor where producer Chad Atkins was so impressed that he offered Connie a recording contract on June 24th 1964 Connie signed with RCA Victor setting the stage for the start of her professional music career after signing with RCA Chad Atkins who was too busy to personally produce her assigned Bob Ferguson listen to the task Bob and Connie developed a close working relationship and he remained her producer throughout her time with RCA Connie's First recording session took place on July 16th 1964 where she recorded four songs three of which were written by Bill Anderson just two days after this session she made her debut on the Grand old Opry among the songs recorded that day was once a day which became her debut singer released in August 1964 once a day quickly climbed the charts reaching number one on the billboard hot country singles chart on November 28th where it stayed for an impressive 8 weeks this achievement made once a day the first debut single by a female country artist to reach number one for nearly 50 years it held the record for the most weeks spent at number one on the billboard country chart by a female artist with the success of once a day Connie's career took off Bill Anderson briefly managed her before Charlie lamb took over Connie made her first Network television appearance in October 1964 on ABC's the Jimmy Dean show by March 1965 RCA Victor released her self-titled debut album which also reached number one on the billboard top country albums chart the album spent 7 weeks at the top solidifying Connie's place in country music critics praised her voice with all music's Dan Cooper describing her as a downhome strand fronting the Lenin sisters Connie continued to release hit singles and albums throughout the 1960s and 1970s even as she faced personal challenges and changes in her career despite setbacks her passion for music and her faith kept her going and she remained a beloved figure in the country music scene Connie Smith's Journey from a small town girl in Ohio to a country music star is a testament to her Talent determination and resilience Marty and Connie Forever The Love Story between Marty Stewart and Connie Smith is a heartwarming tale their journey together began in a rather unexpected yet endearing way highlighting how true love can blossom even under the most ordinary circumstances Stuart had admired Smith from afar for years harboring a deep affection that only grew as they worked together the Turning Point came when Stuart confided in his mother about his feelings for Smith encouraged by her advice to follow his heart Stuart decided to make his move the opportunity presented itself one day at a grocery store where Stuart boldly approached Smith and shared their first kiss this spontaneous moment marked the beginning of a love story that would defy expectations and stand the test of time despite their 17-year age difference in Smith's previous marriages the couple's connection was undeniable they dated for 3 years before tying the knot on July 8th 1997 their wedding held on a Native American reservation in the dtas symbolized the unique and profound Bond they shared over the years their relationship has been characterized by mutual respect unwavering support and a deep commitment to one another in interviews both Stuart and Smith have spoken about the keys to their enduring marriage Smith a devout Christian emphasized the importance of Faith advising couples to make the Lord the center and commit Stuart echoed her sentiments adding that maintaining a successful marriage requires daily effort and dedication you have to get up every day and go to work on it he shared together they have built a life filled with love music and family Smith has five children from her previous marriages and Stuart has embraced his role as a stepfather with open arms loving each child as his own the couple also has a son together Jesse Scott Stewart who has further enriched their lives Stuart credits Smith with teaching him the importance of balance particularly when it comes to family life in an interview he expressed his admiration for Smith's ability to prioritize their family this is a trait he admits he didn't fully appreciate until their marriage with Connie I have learned about balancing Love and Music steuart shared she puts a whole lot more emphasis on family life than I ever did and she's been a great sense of balance to me despite the challenges that often come with marriage especially in the public eye steuart and Smith have managed to maintain a vibrant and loving relationship they have defied the common stereotypes associated with marriage they have proved that with love Faith and commitment a relationship can Thrive for decades their story is not just one of love but also resilience in 2021 Smith experienced significant health challenges related to the pandemic which included hospitalization and complications such as sepsis and pneumonia reflecting on her experience Smith shared that when asked if she wanted to be revived if her heart stopped She firmly replied replied of course I don't want to be a covid statistic her determination and strength Shone through as she made a full recovery with Stuart by her side every step of the way as we wrap up it's clear that Marty Stewart and Connie Smith have shared a life full of love music and unbreakable Faith even in the face of tough times their bond has only grown stronger their story reminds us of the power of love and the importance of standing by the ones we care about thank you for joining us on this journey through their inspiring lives if you enjoyed this video don't forget to like subscribe and share stay tuned for more stories that touch the heart and uplift the soul