Marty Robbins Filmed Singing “Ribbon Of Darkness” Live At Grand Ole Opry – Date Unknown

Classic Country Music / YouTube

Marty Was The Man

As a singer, songwriter, musician, actor, and race car driver, Marty Robbins was the total package. He was responsible for recording some of the biggest hits of his era. Among those hits were the songs “My Woman, My Woman, My Wife” and the iconic “El Paso.”

The songs above were just two of the many #1 hits Robbins scored over the course of his career. Another was “Ribbon of Darkness,” which became his 11th number one hit.

Unlike most of his hits, “Ribbon of Darkness” was not written by Robbins. Instead, the mournful tune was written by Canadian folk singer and songwriter Gordon Lightfoot.

The success Robbins experienced with the song helped Lightfoot earn the distinction as one of Canada’s greatest songwriters.

Robbins released his rendition of “Ribbon of Darkness” as a single in 1965. Other country artists went on to record their own versions of the song, including Crystal Gayle and Connie Smith. But after all this time, Robbins’ version still remains the most recognizable.

An Opry Video

A few years ago, footage resurfaced of Robbins performing “Ribbon of Darkness” live at the Grand Ole Opry, and it’s a real treat.

In addition to being a skilled singer, Robbins was an expert entertainer. He knew how to captivate a crowd, as made clear in the old footage of him singing “Ribbon of Darkness.”

Wearing a flashy green suit with Western detailing, Robbins twisted around while holding his guitar high on his chest. He held eye contact with the crowd, smiling and making a few goofy faces in the process.

Robbins sang for a little under two minutes, but he made the most of that time. We’re sure you’ll be entertained when you watch his performance below.

There was just something about Robbins that set him apart. He was truly a one-in-a-million artist, and we miss him dearly.

Thankfully, videos like this ensure Robbins’ talent will always be remembered.