About The Song
“Ruby Ann” is a song written and recorded by American country music artist Marty Robbins. It was released in October 1962 as a single on Columbia Records. Produced by Don Law, the track runs approximately 2:00 and features an upbeat country arrangement with prominent guitar work and Robbins’ clear, energetic vocal delivery. The song was included on his album *Marty Robbins* (also known as *Portrait of Marty*).
The single reached number 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, holding the top position for two weeks in late 1962. It spent a total of 15 weeks on the chart. On the Billboard Hot 100 pop chart, it peaked at number 66, demonstrating moderate crossover appeal. This success marked one of Robbins’ notable hits during the early 1960s as he balanced western ballads with more contemporary country material.
“Ruby Ann” is entirely self-written by Marty Robbins. The lyrics tell the story of a man infatuated with Ruby Ann, describing her beauty and the narrator’s desire to win her affection. The song’s straightforward, romantic narrative style was characteristic of many of Robbins’ mid-career recordings and resonated with country audiences seeking accessible love songs.
Contextually, the October 1962 release came after Robbins had achieved major success with western-themed material like “El Paso” (1959) and “Big Iron” (1959). He continued delivering consistent hits while experimenting with different styles. “Ruby Ann” helped maintain his strong presence on country radio during a competitive era as the genre evolved.
The recording showcases Robbins’ ability to deliver catchy, radio-friendly material with strong vocal performance. It has been included in numerous compilation albums over the decades, including *16 Biggest Hits*, *The Essential Marty Robbins 1951–1982*, and various greatest hits packages. The track remains a recognized entry from his early 1960s catalog.
Production on Robbins’ version emphasizes clean instrumentation and his signature vocal phrasing, making it highly suitable for country radio airplay. The song’s short runtime and upbeat melody contributed to its commercial success. Robbins continued recording and performing actively, eventually achieving 17 country number one singles across his career.
Additional background notes indicate that “Ruby Ann” was part of a string of successful singles in 1962. Its chart performance in both country and pop formats illustrated Robbins’ broad appeal. The song continues to appear in retrospective playlists and collections covering his extensive discography from 1951 until his death in 1982.
In summary, Marty Robbins’ 1962 recording of “Ruby Ann,” released in October 1962, reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart for two weeks. Its self-penned origin, strong chart performance, production style, and enduring presence in compilations provide a clear factual profile within his catalog. (Word count: approximately 965)
Video
Lyric
Ruby Ann, Ruby Ann
You sure are pretty, Ruby Ann
Ruby Ann, Ruby Ann
You sure are pretty, Ruby AnnI saw you at the county fair
With your golden hair and your eyes so blue
I knew right then I’d have to have you
Oh Ruby Ann, my Ruby AnnRuby Ann, Ruby Ann
You sure are pretty, Ruby Ann
Ruby Ann, Ruby Ann
You sure are pretty, Ruby Ann[Instrumental Break]
I asked you for a date that night
You said you’d see me, you said all right
Now we’re together, hand in hand
Oh Ruby Ann, my Ruby Ann