About this album
Where they were
In 2011, Mickey Newbury released 'An American Trilogy' as a culmination of his decades-long career, showcasing his evolution as a songwriter. This album came nearly 40 years after his breakthrough in the late 1960s with hits like 'Sweet Memories' and marked a return to recording after a long hiatus.
Why it matters
'An American Trilogy' is significant for its intricate blend of original compositions and reimagined classics, reflecting Newbury's lasting influence on country music. The album received positive critical attention, further solidifying his reputation as a pioneer in the genre known for deep lyrical content and emotional resonance.
Essential tracks
- "She Even Woke Me Up to Say Goodbye" — This track showcases Newbury's storytelling prowess, conveying heartbreak and longing through evocative lyrics and a haunting melody.
- "San Francisco Mable Joy" — A standout for its vivid imagery and narrative style, this song encapsulates Newbury's ability to paint portraits of characters that resonate with listeners.
- "How Many Times (Must the Piper Be Paid for His Song)" — This track emphasizes Newbury's introspective lyricism and philosophical themes, making it a contemplative centerpiece of the album.
Release Date
January 1, 2011
Artist Origin
United States
Tracklist
Disc 1
- 1 Write a Song a Song / Angeline 7:12
- 2 She Even Woke Me Up to Say Goodbye 3:59
- 3 I Don't Think Much About Her No More 5:47
- 4 T. Total Tommy 4:08
- 5 33rd of August / When the Baby in My Lady Gets the Blues 9:06
- 6 San Francisco Mable Joy 6:48
- 7 Looks Like Baby's Gone 4:29
Disc 2
- 1 An American Trilogy 4:53
- 2 How Many Times (Must the Piper Be Paid for His Song) 5:55
- 3 Interlude 1:34
- 4 The Future's Not What It Used to Be 4:30
- 5 Mobile Blue 3:05
- 6 Frisco Depot 3:40
- 7 You're Not My Same Sweet Baby 3:50
- 8 Interlude 1:09
- 9 Remember the Good 3:05
- 10 Swiss Cottage Place 3:11
- 11 How I Love Them Old Songs 3:48
Disc 3
- 1 Heaven Help the Child 5:16
- 2 Good Morning Dear 5:15
- 3 Sunshine 4:02
- 4 Sweet Memories 3:48
- 5 Why You Been Gone So Long 3:25
- 6 Cortelia Clark 5:10
- 7 Song for Susan 4:31
- 8 San Francisco Mabel Joy 5:32
Disc 4
- 1 If You Want Me to I'll Go 3:37
- 2 Sunshine 3:03
- 3 Sad Satin Rhyme 3:14
- 4 Why You Been Gone So Long 3:20
- 5 I Don't Wanna Rock 1:55
- 6 Let Me Stay Awhile 2:25
- 7 Flower Man 4:10
- 8 Good Morning Dear 2:14
- 9 On Top of Old Smokey 3:27
- 10 Interlude: How Many Times (Must the Piper Be Paid for His Song) 2:03
- 11 Better Days 3:20
- 12 How I Love Them Old Songs 2:10
- 13 I Don't Wanna Rock 2:28
- 14 I Don't Want Me No Big City Woman 2:07
- 15 You're Not My Same Sweet Baby 4:50