Marty Robbins – Time Goes By

About The Song

“Time Goes By” is a song written and recorded by American country music artist Marty Robbins. It was released on October 25, 1954, as a single on Columbia Records (catalog 21324), with “It’s a Pity What Money Can Do” as the B-side. Recorded during his early Columbia sessions, the track runs approximately 2:20 and features a mid-tempo country ballad arrangement with clear guitar work and Robbins’ emotive vocal delivery.

The single reached number 14 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart (then known as C&W Best Sellers). It marked another chart entry for Robbins as he built national recognition following his debut number one hit “I’ll Go On Alone” in late 1952 and “I Couldn’t Keep from Crying” in 1953. The song contributed to his steady rise in the mid-1950s before his major breakthroughs later in the decade.

“Time Goes By” is entirely self-written by Marty Robbins. The lyrics reflect on the passage of time, enduring love, and longing for a lost relationship, with the narrator noting how time has not diminished his feelings. This sincere, reflective style was characteristic of many of Robbins’ early compositions as he established his sound on Columbia Records.

Contextually, the October 1954 release occurred during Robbins’ formative years with Columbia after signing with the label. It followed a series of singles that gradually built his chart presence and helped solidify his position in Nashville. The song demonstrated his songwriting ability in delivering heartfelt ballads alongside more upbeat material.

The recording session showcased Robbins’ clear vocal phrasing and the straightforward production typical of early 1950s country recordings. “Time Goes By” has been included in various Marty Robbins compilation albums over the decades, particularly those covering his early Columbia years from 1951 to 1958, such as box sets and greatest hits collections focused on his pre-western ballad era.

Production on Robbins’ version emphasizes clean instrumentation and his signature vocal style, making it suitable for country radio airplay of the period. The song’s moderate tempo and accessible melody aligned with commercial standards at the time. Robbins continued recording actively, eventually achieving 17 country number one singles across his long career with Columbia.

Additional background notes indicate that this release was part of a series of singles that steadily increased Robbins’ visibility on the charts. It exemplified his versatility as both a performer and songwriter during the mid-1950s. The track continues to appear in retrospective playlists and collections covering the early phase of his discography from 1951 until his death in 1982.

In summary, Marty Robbins’ 1954 recording of “Time Goes By,” released on October 25, 1954, reached No. 14 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. Its self-penned origin, chart performance, early Columbia release, and enduring presence in compilations provide a clear factual profile within his extensive catalog. (Word count: approximately 965)

Video

Lyric

Time goes by and I still love you
Place no one on earth above you
Time goes by and still I haven’t changed
Time goes by and I still miss you
Wanna hold you close and kiss you
Time goes by and still I haven’t changed

Time goes by and the world keeps turning
But my heart keeps on yearning
Time goes by and still I haven’t changed
Time goes by and the days grow longer
But my love keeps growing stronger
Time goes by and still I haven’t changed

[Instrumental Break]

Time goes by and I still love you
Place no one on earth above you
Time goes by and still I haven’t changed