About the song
“Stand by Your Man” is a song that has etched itself deeply into the annals of country music history. Recorded by the legendary American country music artist Tammy Wynette, it was co-written by Wynette and the notable producer Billy Sherrill. Released on September 20, 1968, as the lead single and title track from her album “Stand by Your Man,” the song quickly became the most successful record of Wynette’s illustrious career and remains one of the most recognizable and influential songs in the genre.
Upon its release as a 7-inch 45 rpm single, “Stand by Your Man” began receiving airplay on American R&B and country radio stations by October 12, 1968, and entered the Billboard charts on October 19. The song dominated the U.S. country charts, holding the number one position for three weeks. It also made a significant crossover to the U.S. pop charts, peaking at number 19. This remarkable success elevated Wynette to superstar status, distinguishing her from her peers and solidifying her place in country music history.
Internationally, “Stand by Your Man” also made a substantial impact. It topped the UK Singles Chart in 1975 and reached number one in the Netherlands. The accompanying album of the same name, released in 1968, was equally successful, further cementing Wynette’s global appeal. The song earned her the 1970 Grammy Award for Best Country Vocal Performance, Female—her second Grammy in that category—and was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1999, signifying its enduring legacy.
Despite its widespread acclaim, “Stand by Your Man” was not without controversy. During the late 1960s and early 1970s women’s liberation movement, feminist groups criticized the song for being overly conservative. However, for many, the song resonated as an anthem for working-class housewives navigating marital disappointments and evolving gender roles. Wynette herself stated that she had not intended any social or political message in the song.
The song’s cultural significance was further highlighted in 1992 when Hillary Clinton referenced it during a 60 Minutes interview amid the controversy surrounding Bill Clinton’s affair with Gennifer Flowers. Clinton’s remark that she was “not sitting here, some little woman standing by my man like Tammy Wynette” sparked a reaction from Wynette, who felt misrepresented by the comment.
The Jordanaires provided the vocal accompaniment for “Stand by Your Man,” as they did for many of Wynette’s hit recordings, adding a rich layer to the song’s powerful delivery. The song’s legacy was further solidified when it was selected by the Library of Congress as a 2010 addition to the National Recording Registry, an honor given to recordings deemed “culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant.” In 2021, Rolling Stone ranked it No. 473 on their “Top 500 Songs of All Time” list, underscoring its lasting impact on music and culture.
“Stand by Your Man” remains a testament to Tammy Wynette’s talent and the song’s enduring relevance in the tapestry of American music. Its heartfelt lyrics, memorable melody, and Wynette’s emotive performance continue to resonate with audiences, making it a timeless classic.
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