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She has had a long career in country music, known for her unique voice and storytelling. Despite professional success, she has experienced challenges like failed marriages and a health battle. Her long-lasting marriage to a fellow country star began unexpectedly and has lasted through the years.
Their 17-year age difference has never been a concern for this country legend. Her husband, now 66, has also made his mark in the industry, but his connection to her started long before they became a couple.
At the time, she was already an established artist with hit records and a growing legacy in country music. What began as admiration from afar eventually turned into a lifelong partnership that has lasted for over 25 years.
Her Rise to Country Music Fame
They first met in the late '60s, a few years after she entered the industry. Her debut single, “Once a Day,” topped the Billboard Country chart for eight weeks in 1964, making her the first female country artist to achieve that feat with a first release.
The song's success launched a career that has spanned nearly six decades. Over the years, she recorded 54 studio albums, earning a reputation for her powerful contralto voice that many compared to Patsy Cline's.
Despite her talent and success, she never pursued fame aggressively. She was more focused on the music itself, and at times, she stepped away from recording and touring to focus on her family.
She married four times and had five children, balancing motherhood with a career that influenced generations of female country artists. In 2012, her impact on the genre was officially recognized when she was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame.
She has often described country music as “the cry of the heart,” explaining that while she didn't always live the lyrics she sang, she understood them. Her ability to convey raw emotion made her a beloved figure in traditional country music.
The First Time They Met
Her future husband first saw her perform when he was 11 years old, attending her concert with his mother, who was a devoted fan. Her music had already filled their home, and seeing her in person was an exciting moment for him.
“I remember we had one of her RCA Victor records called ‘Miss Smith Goes to Nashville.' It had the most beautiful portrait of her, and we displayed it on our stereo,” he'd later recall. “I'd walk by and think, ‘She's really pretty. [She] is beautiful.' Many people had crushes on her, and for good reason.”
Wanting to make an impression, he asked his mother to buy him a yellow shirt for the occasion, hoping the singer would notice him. After the show, he had the chance to meet her, get her autograph, and even take a picture with her.
Before leaving, he borrowed his mother's camera to take a close-up photo of her sitting in a car. That day, he told his mother something that seemed impossible at the time. “I'm going to marry [her] one day,” he stated confidently.
How They Reconnected and Married
As he grew older, he built a successful career in country music, performing with some of the biggest names in the industry. His work eventually brought him into her circle again, and this time, their connection deepened.
Over time, their bond became something more, and in 1997, they got married. Their 17-year age difference never stood in the way, and their relationship has lasted for more than 25 years. Looking back, the prediction he made at 11 years old had come true.
The Key to Their Lasting Marriage
More than two decades after their wedding, their marriage remains strong. When asked about the foundation of their relationship, they both emphasize faith, commitment, and communication.
Connie Smith has said that making God the center of their marriage has been essential, while he believes that a lasting relationship requires daily effort. They also make a point to stay connected by turning off distractions and having meaningful conversations.
“Turn the TV off. Turn the gadgets off, and the conversation comes back,” he once said. By prioritizing their relationship, they have built a marriage that has stood the test of time.
Her Health Scare and His Support
In early 2021, Smith was rushed to the hospital after falling seriously ill. She was diagnosed with COVID-19, which had developed into pneumonia in both lungs and led to sepsis. The situation was critical, and at one point, a doctor asked if she wanted to be resuscitated if her heart stopped.
Without hesitation, she responded, “Absolutely. I will not be a COVID statistic. That's not the way I want to go out.” Throughout her hospitalization, he stayed by her side, supporting her through the difficult recovery.
Smith eventually pulled through, crediting her resilience and determination. The experience only reinforced the strength of their partnership.
Their Musical Collaboration
Music has always been central to the couple's relationship. Over the years, Marty Stuart has produced several of his wife's albums, including “The Cry of the Heart,” released in 2021. It was her 54th album as well as her first secular album in a decade, and he played a key role in encouraging her to return to the studio.
The album featured a song written by Dallas Frazier, a songwriter Smith had long admired. Having recorded more than 70 of his songs throughout her career, she felt it was the perfect way to mark her return.
Their shared passion for country music has been a constant in their marriage, strengthening both their personal and professional bond.
Fans Celebrate Her Legacy and Marriage
Smith's music has resonated with audiences for decades, and fans continue to celebrate her contributions to traditional country. “I LOVE Connie Smith! One of my all-time favorite singers!” one fan wrote, while another called her “so beautiful and a very good traditional country music singer.”
Others expressed similar admiration, with one commenting, “Beautiful lady! One of my very favorites!!!!” Fans are just as fond of her relationship with her husband.
At 83 years old, Smith and the 66-year-old Stuart have built an admirable relationship. A photo of the couple together received an outpouring of support.
One person commented, “Cutest couple ever!” while another wrote, “Wow, don't they look great.” A third admirer added, “You two are just the cutest couple!!” Their long-lasting marriage, despite their 17-year age difference, continues to be an inspiration to many.
