Who is Carl Smith

Carl Smith was 82 when he passed away.

When I heard of his passing, I couldn't quite picture Carl Smith or remember his work. But, once I started looking around, I found the song, Before I Met You, on YouTube. I remember him now.

Though I didn't realize it back then, he was "big time." The ladies loved him and thought he was handsome. He had a strong and confident voice which I'm sure added greatly to his appeal.

Take a listen...

Carl Smith retired to become a gentleman horse breeder in 1973. His career had been filled with hit after hit for 22 years. His retirement year told the tale of why I didn't remember him too well. I came into the world in 1957. I was just too young to think too much about what I was hearing. By the time I was old enough to appreciate it, I was into Charlie Rich and rock and roll. And Carl Smith's career was waning.

Yet, Carl Smith's music, as I listen in now, brings back memories of the music my daddy loved to listen to. Every time I hear a steel guitar, it reminds me of my dad.

Hey Joe was a fun little hit tune in 1968...

I learned that Carl Smith was once married to June Carter Cash and is the father of their daughter, Carlene Carter, a star of country music as well. Carl was also a drinking buddy of Johnny Cash.

Johnny and June, as you probably know, married each other after divorcing their respective spouses. Carl Smith went on to marry Goldie Hill, and their marriage, like Johnny and June's, seems to have been very successful. Goldie Hill passed away in 2005.

Not remembering a great artist like Carl Smith can make a person wonder what else she's forgotten. But, looking up Carl Smith's music has given me a chance to really appreciate it. As an adult listening to him, I don't think I could ever forget him again.

In addition to Carlene Carter, Carl Smith left behind another daughter, Lori Lynn Smith, and many grandchildren and great grandchildren.

You're Free To Go is another one that might bring back memories for you...