Country music has always had a knack for stirring emotions, and Margo Smith's 'Ridin' High' serves up just the right amount of twang and sass that might just make some heads turn. Released in 1977, this album was the proving ground for Smith, a world-class performer blessed with both the voice of an angel and the grit of a cowboy. Now, what's not to love about that? The album, a shining testament to Smith's interpretation of classic country, came out right in the heart of Nashville, the epicenter of country music, and left a lasting mark on the scene. You know you're onto something good when an album recorded in Nashville finds itself climbing the charts, resonating with folks who understand hard work and genuine storytelling.
Voicing the Silent Majority: While most of the big city slickers were getting lost in the noise of disco balls and funk, Margo Smith was speaking to the everyday American whose heart beats to a different drum. It's this honest depiction of life that makes 'Ridin’ High' an ultimate escape from the usual liberal popular culture's obsession with flash and glam.
Authentic Storytelling: Smith’s masterpiece thrives on the art of storytelling—something that appears to be lost in much of today's pop-infested radio. Every song in the album tells a story of love, heartbreak, and perseverance, echoing the core values of country life. It’s straightforward, it’s real, and it sure as heck isn't trying to sugar-coat reality.
Breaking Through the Noise: In a time when music was shifting towards studio-heavy production, Smith kept it simple. Her songs are grounded in traditional country instruments like the fiddle, steel guitar, and banjo. That's right. There's no need for flashy synth effects when you've got raw talent and a knack for touching people's souls.
Chart-topping Success: Not only did 'Ridin' High' capture the hearts of country lovers, but it also managed to break through on the charts. The album solidified Smith's standing as one of the leading ladies in country music back in the late '70s. She wasn’t just singing for the converted; she was converting the skeptical.
Country’s Golden Girl: Margo Smith provided a voice to those in the heartland who felt forgotten. While the entertainment industry was busy cozying up to city elites, Smith stayed true to her roots, connecting with folks who actually understood ranches and rolling plains more than nightclubs and concrete jungles.
Empowerment Through Lyrics: 'Ridin' High' is filled with songs that fuel the spirit of independence and hard work. Something everyone who rolls up their sleeves in this great nation can understand. In an era before empowerment became a buzzword, Smith’s songs were already pushing boundaries, inspiring women and men alike to stand there's no place like the great outdoors, far from the preening city lights.
Traditional Values: The album doesn’t shy away from championing themes such as loyalty, faith, and family—values often derided by those who believe in an “anything goes” lifestyle. Smith’s unwavering commitment to these themes creates an album that speaks to countless individuals who refuse to bow under the pressure of fleeting trends.
Influence and Legacy: Even decades later, the strength of ’Ridin’ High’ echoes in the work of newer country artists who seek to balance tradition with modernity. By sticking to her guns and delivering timeless music, Smith laid the groundwork for the genuine, heartfelt ballads that many of today’s country musicians aspire to create.
A Reminder of Simpler Times: In our fast-paced, digitally-driven world, this album harks back to a simpler time when music was about connecting hearts, not just tallying up streams and views online. Unlike some genres that can feel mass-produced, 'Ridin’ High' is authentic and pure—a reflection of the songwriter's soul.
Uniting Real Music Lovers: ’Ridin’ High’ creates a unified, harmonious experience by bringing music lovers back to the roots of American culture—a culture that thrives on work ethic, storytelling, and of being unabashedly true to oneself rather than following every passing fad.
Ridin' High stands tall as an album that not only champions real country music, but also won Margo Smith a well-deserved spotlight. It teaches us—as all good country music does—that sometimes, simple authenticity and an unyielding sense of integrity are all you need to ride high.