Robbins’ career spanned nearly four decades before his passing in 1982
Anthem Music Publishing is proud to announce the acquisition of a catalog of songs from legendary country and western singer-songwriter Marty Robbins. This catalog represents a cornerstone of American music history and marks a powerful addition to Anthem’s growing legacy of culturally significant works.
Among the standout titles is “Big Iron,” Robbins’ 1960 classic that reached No. 5 on Billboard’s U.S. Country chart and peaked at No. 26 on the Billboard Hot 100. In 2010, the Western Writers of America ranked it the 11th greatest Western song of all time – a testament to its enduring appeal. “Big Iron” was also featured in the 2010 video game Fallout: New Vegas, introducing Robbins’ music to a new generation of fans.
Also included is the groundbreaking hit “El Paso,” released by Columbia Records in 1959, which topped both the Billboard Hot 100 and U.S. Country charts. The song earned Robbins the 1961 Grammy Award for Best Country & Western Recording and was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1998. Its legacy endures through covers by artists such as Keith Urban and the Grateful Dead, who performed the song live more than 380 times.
Another highlight of the catalog is “My Woman, My Woman, My Wife,” a deeply personal ballad that reached No. 1 on the U.S. Country chart and No. 42 on the Billboard Hot 100. The track earned Robbins his second Grammy Award for Best Country & Western Recording in 1970.
“Marty Robbins was a towering figure in American music – an artist whose storytelling transcended genre and era. His songs are woven into the fabric of country and western music heritage, and continue to influence artists and resonate with fans to this day,” statesJason Klein, CEO of Anthem Music Group.
“We’re honored to see Marty’s music find a new home with Anthem Music Publishing. His songs have stood the test of time, captivating generations with their vivid storytelling and emotional depth. We’re confident that Anthem will not only preserve Marty’s legacy, but elevate it – introducing his work to new audiences while honoring the timeless spirit of the originals,” adds the Marty Robbins Estate. “Marty’s music has always belonged to the people, and we believe Anthem shares that same dedication to keeping it alive for generations to come.”
Robbins’ career spanned nearly four decades, beginning in the late 1940s and continuing through the early 1980s. A singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and even a NASCAR driver, he was a true American original. Often regarded as an early trailblazer of outlaw country, Robbins fused traditional Western themes with a cinematic songwriting style that set him apart from his contemporaries.
Throughout his prolific career, Robbins recorded more than 500 songs and released over 72 albums. His accolades include two Grammy Awards, induction into both the Country Music Hall of Fame and the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame, and the distinction of being the first-ever recipient of the Academy of Country Music’s Artist of the Decade Award, honoring his influence throughout the 1960s. His songs “El Paso” and “Big Iron” remain cultural touchstones and were named among the Top 100 Western Songs of All Time by the Western Writers of America.
With this acquisition, Anthem deepens its commitment to preserving and celebrating the work of musical legends – ensuring their timeless songs continue to resonate with audiences around the world.
Anthem Music Group is one of the world’s leading independent music companies. Comprising award-winning organizations, Anthem Music Group is home to Anthem Music Publishing and Anthem Records. Headquartered in Toronto, with operations in Nashville, New York and Los Angeles, Anthem supports and invests in the careers and works of songwriters and artists, and the creation of exceptional music for recording artists and audio-visual productions. Anthem’s unique approach combines the resources, power, and reach of a major with the agility, entrepreneurism, and soul of an independent.
