Best Songs on The Album Sweetheart of the Rodeo by The Byrds
This album marks a major change in the Byrds. With David Crosby and Michael Clarke gone, they hired new drummer Kevin Kelley and "jazz pianist" Gram Parsons. Gram quickly changed from piano to guitar (his real instrument), and began to assert his influence. Originally, Roger McGuinn wanted to do an album spanning the genres of 20th century music (folk, jazz, country, rock, psychedelia, and futuristic electronic music). However, Gram Parsons convinced Chris Hillman that a straight country album would work, and producer Gary Usher thought it would be easier to create. So, they went ahead. Although the album was supposed to expand their fanbase, it was rejected by both rock and country fans, and was a commercial flop. Despite this, it is cemented in history as the first country rock record by a major artist. If I missed your favorite song, go ahead and add it.
I consider this to be the greatest song that Gram Parsons ever recorded. It's about becoming famous and missing the simple pleasures of life.
Right, I forgot. Being edgy means nothing deserves too much praise. It's not advertising numbnuts.
This song was originally recorded by Bob Dylan during his Basement Tapes period. The demos that Dylan recorded floated around the music industry at the time, and the Byrds recorded at least three of those songs.
Another song from the Basement Tapes. I love the way how the drum pattern changes when going from verse to chorus.
This song was originally by Merle Haggard. It's about a prisoner who wants to die because he lives in so much pain while in prison.
Chris Hillman sings this song. It's a traditional song that was made popular by Merle Travis.
Originally by Stax artist William Bell. They gave it a brand-new arrangement when they recorded it.
Originally by Luke McDaniel. It's about a heartbroken man who tries to forget his lover by drinking, to no avail.
This song was originally recorded by Gene Autry for the film of the same name. Chris Hillman also sings lead here.
This is the only other song on the album that was written by Gram Parsons. I love the steel guitar hook.
Originally by Woody Guthrie. Since Roger McGuinn had never really played or written any country songs before, he decided to record a couple folk songs and turn them into a more bluegrass arrangement. Pretty Boy Floyd was the only one that made the cut.